Development of a Wheelchair Repair Registry

Abstract

ObjectiveTo describe the development of a wheelchair repair registry from large datasets to attain an understanding of wheelchair failures and service repairs. DesignGuidelines for registry development were applied and anchored around Labor-Tracker, a web-based information management system for wheelchair suppliers to manage and track wheelchair repairs. The registry was designed using online analytical processing, allowing for rapid data queries from multiple dimensions that enable complex data analysis and discovery. SettingThe Wheelchair Repair Registry (WRR) was developed through an industry and academic collaboration whereby repair data were collected in the field, entered into the Labor-Tracker system, deidentified, and then transferred to the registry and made available for analyses. ParticipantsWheelchair supplier service technicians reported data from repair services provided to individuals who use power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, and scooters. InterventionsNot applicable. Main Outcome MeasuresWheelchair failure and repair data, including variables related to scheduling, equipment information (eg, manufacturer, model, serial number, purchase date), labor, parts, and reasons for repairs. ResultsThe WRR was developed to analyze wheelchair repairs and failures from the Labor-Tracker system. Currently, the registry has more than 60,000 repairs conducted on more than 5000 wheelchair devices from 25 manufacturers. The devices include 60% power wheelchairs, 35% manual wheelchairs, and 5% scooters. ConclusionsThe WWR creates opportunities to apply large-data analytical methodologies that will serve to inform quality standards, practice, equipment selection, preventative maintenance routines, product design, and policy.