SmartTech Implementation Hub for Paralysis Care
We bridge the technology gap for people with paralysis by providing personalized smart technology education, training, and implementation services that enhance independence, reduce care partner care load, and improve participation in daily life.
- Impact Areas:
- Health & Mental Well-being
- Human Rights & Social Justice
Impact
In collaboration with the Center for Innovation in Social Work & Health (CISWH), the SmartTech Implementation Hub for Paralysis Care (ST4P) at the University of Pittsburgh revolutionizes how individuals with paralysis regain independence and improve their quality of life through innovative smart technology solutions.
Research Initiatives
The Hub serves as a national resource center dedicated to supporting research, training, policy, advocacy, and knowledge translation in smart technology implementation for paralysis care. Our team of experts—including engineers, physicians, therapists, social workers, and individuals living with paralysis—continuously evaluates the effectiveness of our interventions to improve outcomes.
Smart Stay: Technology Integration in Inpatient Rehabilitation
Our inpatient program introduces smart technology during hospital stays, providing education and hands-on training to help individuals with paralysis gain control of their environment even before discharge. This initiative empowers patients to:
- Control room features independently
- Learn technology skills in a supported setting
- Build confidence and self-efficacy during rehabilitation
Smart Transition: Supporting the Journey Home
Our comprehensive home transition program builds on inpatient training to ensure successful technology implementation after discharge. This research initiative includes:
- Home environment assessment
- Installation of customized smart technology solutions
- Ongoing training and support through the critical transition period
- Follow-up evaluations to measure impact on independence and quality of life
Community-Driven Approach
We prioritize:
- Health equity approaches in technology access and training
- Systems-level improvements in collaboration with people with lived experience
- Qualitative research that captures the authentic experiences of individuals with paralysis
- Strategic partnerships with organizations like United Spinal and rehabilitation hospitals
Innovative dissemination approaches to advance systems change in research, policy, education, and practice
Key Partners
Convergent partnerships are at the heart of what we do. We are proud to partner with federal and state agencies, non-profit and advocacy organizations, philanthropic institutions, and universities to elevate social work leadership and to create equitable health and mental health care systems for all.
