A qualitative study has revealed that training in telehealth wheelchair assessment is essential for incorporating culturally safe communication practices and user autonomy, while identifying solutions that achieve wheelchair user goals. The study used focus group and interview data from 23 assessors (19 occupational therapists and 4 physiotherapist assessors, 1 of whom was Māori) and 19 wheelchair users (3 of whom were Māori). A total of 8 themes were identified, with the final 3 themes of particular concern to Māori: (1) At the mercy of the system; (2) The hurdle of technology; (3) More efficient for all; (4) Lost information and connection; (5) Rights and the right way forward; (6) Cultural safety; (7) Whanaungatanga (relationship building); and (8) Summative disadvantage for Tāngata whaikaha (Māori with disabilities). Themes reflected a recognition of both risks and advantages associated with tele-delivered assessment.
