Transport technology: New Zealand perspectives.

ABSTRACT

This article reviews the current driver and passenger assessment and rehabilitation in New Zealand with emphasis on those with an acquired disability. At the same time, heightened expectations by people with disabilities to achieve improved quality of life have also created a consumer driven demand for services. Established services have developed close team work between Occupational Therapists and Engineers, specialising in vehicle modifications for people with disabilities, who work together with the client to find the most ideal solution. Finally, this paper provides a description of a private practice in occupational therapy. As a case example, the Driver Assessment Service specialises wholly in assessing and meeting the transportation needs of people with disabilities and their funding agents.