Leadership
- Interim Associate Dean of Research
- Director, Center for Outcomes and Measurement
- Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy
901 Walnut Street
Suite 642
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Remote Testing of Physical Function in Spinal Cord Injury
Study Overview
This study is a paid study funded by Craig H Neilson Foundation for persons with spinal cord injuries and care partners of persons with spinal cord injuries (SCI). The main purpose of this research is to validate the use of assessments for people with SCI to be used through remote platforms such as Zoom. If the assessments used in this study can be validated for remote use, people with SCI can have increased access to healthcare without the need to leave their home, travel, find parking, access inaccessible buildings, etc.
Currently, there are no assessments specific to the spinal cord population that can be utilized through remote platforms to address physical impairments due to SCI. In addition to working toward validating assessments to be used remotely for the SCI community, use of telehealth can also aid the SCI community to stay engaged and connected to the SCI community if physical presence is not an option. Another important consideration for remote testing is the flexibility that people with SCI need in making decisions about remote or in-person testing. Our participants indicated that they would prefer in-person visits when it is feasible based on the weather, parking, general health, companion for travel, and cost, to be able to stay socially connected. However, they wanted the option to be able to do remote testing in difficult circumstances, pandemic being one of them. Thus, if the scores for functional measures obtained remotely are comparable to in-person versions, then the participants could be presented with the option of either an in-person or a remote assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does the Study Entail?
Each participant will be expected to participate in three session and a post study interview. One session is in person in Center City Philadelphia, and the other two sessions are conducted remotely from the comfort of their home. Each “session” is maximum four hours and includes the completion of three assessments. You will transport assessments home following the in-person session for the completion of the remote sessions and at the conclusion of the study, assessment material will be returned to Jefferson.
Who Can Be in the Study?
A person may be a candidate for this study if:
- Individual with SCI (any level injury)
- Age 18-80 years
- Access to either smart phone/tablet/computer/laptop
- Willing to engage in end of study interview
How Long is Each Session?
Sessions range from 2 hours to 4 hours depending on the level of the spinal cord injury of the participant. Remote sessions are typically ½-1 hour shorter than the in-person sessions.
What will I be Paid?
Each participant (person with SCI) AND care partner will be paid $50 per session including the after-study interview. $200 in total for both the persons with SCI and care partner.
Is a Care Partner Needed?
No. If you are independent in all tasks and do not need assistance a care partner is not necessary. We are willing to pay a friend, family member, or caregiver to assist with item set up, flow of assessments, and other miscellaneous tasks related to assessment administration.
Is this Study in Person or Remote?
Both. The first session must be completed in person. The other two sessions and interview are completed remotely.
How Do I Return the Assessments to Jefferson?
A prepaid shipping label will be provided and pick up scheduled for you. Print the label and put it on the container, provided at the in-person session, and place it outside on the day of scheduled pick up.
How Do I Get More Information?
You can reach us by contacting:
Main Investigator: Dr. Namrata Grampurohit, PhD, OTR/L at Namrata.Grampurohit@jefferson.edu
Study Coordinator: Dr. Stephanie Bennett, OTD, OTR/L at Stephanie.Bennett@jefferson,.edu