Exploring acceptance of a Clinical Workflow tool in the Swedish Prosthetics and Orthotics Sector: A Qualitative Study (Preprint)

<sec> <title>BACKGROUND</title> The global demand for assistive devices (AD), such as prosthetics and orthotics, is increasing. However, a shortage of trained professionals contributes to suboptimal care. To improve clinical workflows, the Life Lounge Clinical Workflow (LLCW) has been developed. Understanding user acceptance is essential for ensuring its successful implementation. </sec> <sec> <title>OBJECTIVE</title> This study explored prosthetics and orthotics (P&amp;O) professionals’ perceptions and acceptance of LLCW, as well as the perceived benefits and challenges associated with its use. </sec> <sec> <title>METHODS</title> A qualitative study was conducted using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework. The study included 18 P&amp;O professionals working at orthotic and prosthetic clinics across Sweden. After an interactive session about LLCW, feedback was collected via questionnaires. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. </sec> <sec> <title>RESULTS</title> Key factors influencing acceptance included Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, and Facilitating Conditions. Participants rated the platform highly in terms of ease of use (mean = 4.1) and motivation to use (mean = 4.6), suggesting that LLCW was perceived as intuitive and personally valuable. Management encouragement received the highest rating (mean = 4.8), highlighting the importance of organizational support. However, colleagues’ perceptions scored lower (mean = 2.7), indicating limited peer influence. Areas for improvement included greater patient involvement, structured onboarding or training, and more robust technical support. </sec> <sec> <title>CONCLUSIONS</title> Prosthetics and orthotics professionals reported generally positive experiences with LLCW, particularly regarding usability and performance. However, successful implementation requires integration into existing clinical workflows and attention to training and patient engagement. Addressing these elements can support broader adoption and contribute to digital transformation in P&amp;O care. </sec>