Capacity Building Using Digital Technology for Occupational Therapists and Caregivers in Pakistan: A Participatory Action Research Approach

Abstract

This paper describes the development and implementation of a telehealth system in Pakistan to build capacity of healthcare service providers and caregivers of children with developmental disabilities. An asynchronous telehealth system, in the form of a web app, improved therapy-related communication between the therapists and caregivers, thus enabling capacity building through sustained communication among the stakeholders. Participatory Action Research (PAR) identified barriers associated with communication, knowledge transfer, and caregiver learning. Data were collected via observations, interviews, focus groups, and field notes. The experiences of therapists and caregivers were analyzed to design and develop a system that works as a learning mechanism for caregivers in their native languages. The system also addresses socio-economic, geographic, and communication barriers as well as pandemic-imposed obstacles.