Interprofessional learning through 3D printing of assistive devices

Abstract

Emerging technologies in the rehabilitative component of patient care in community settings continue to grow. One of the emerging technological fields in the health sciences arena is 3D printing. It is particularly useful in rehabilitation services in the production of assistive devices. Degerli et al.1 define assistive devices, as any commercially developed, modified or customised system, component or product used to improve or preserve the functional capabilities of a person not able to engage in all their daily living activities. Currently, assistive devices are not easily customizable. Off-the-shelf devices do not meet the individual needs of the customer; they are costly, lack individual compatibility and not always in stock. In minimising these challenges, technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) such as 3D printing have been offered as a practical solution at a local university in South Africa.