ABSTRACT

Rapid advances in technology have begun to give new shape to the health-care landscape, affecting the calibre of diagnostic procedures, the precision of treatment interventions, and the speed of communication among professionals and consumers. The use of technology is also changing the ways in which health care is delivered. Employing technology to deliver neuropsychological rehabilitation interventions is likely to make a significant contribution to the welfare of individuals affected by neurological disorders, since access to care is a significant challenge for these individuals. Currently most specialised treatment occurs in major medical and rehabilitation centres, which are often located in or near major metropolitan areas, leaving millions of individuals outside the catchment areas. Furthermore, in vast countries like the USA, Canada, China, Australia, Brazil or Russia, most rural areas provide limited transportation options, and the number of specialised professionals in these areas is not sufficient to cover the needs of all individuals requiring rehabilitation. In addition, the physical and cognitive impairments that people with neurological disorders typically experience can make travelling difficult and cost-prohibitive. Telerehabilitation is a promising solution for decreasing health disparities and increasing access to care globally.