Hugh O’Neill, Bryan Boyle, Dr. Bob Allen
Central Remedial Clinic, Dublin, Ireland

With the advent of videoconferencing technology it has now become possible to conduct assessments for people’s assistive technology needs remotely. This has very practical benefits for end users of assistive technology, and wheelchair users in particular. In many cases, end users would no longer be required to travel long distances for their assessments, often returning on the same day. Also, because the Assistive Technology assessors wouldn’t be travelling as much, they will be able to see a greater number of clients.
The Artemis system is a remote assessment system for assistive technology that incorporates video conferencing with the ability to make changes to a remote PC desktop. It allows assessments to be carried out on an end user’s mouse and keyboard usage, and to make adjustments to the settings of these devices. In section one, the functionality of the Artemis system is outlined. This is followed by an assessment of its potential uses by wheelchair users.

This paper examines trials conducted to establish the effectiveness of the Artemis system in assessing the needs of wheelchair users. It outlines the trials carried out on the system, the response of the wheelchair users to the new technology, and how well the system could meet their needs. It goes on to formulate recommendations on the use of the system for the assessment of the assistive technology needs of wheelchair users.