This innovative development project aimed to build an intelligent, globally scalable, AIRe Platform (AIRe), that provides multidisciplinary rehabilitation services directly to those in need. A post-project aim is to be recognised as a digital public good by the DPG Alliance ensuring that the solution contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The long-term goal is to increase access to rehabilitation globally.
The development of AIRe followed a Human-Centred Design (HCD) approach, engaging global stakeholders, including rehabilitation service users and professionals, service providers, and academia, through the Discover, Define, Create, and Test phases. The approach was used to identify common elements in rehabilitation worldwide and to create a scalable, user-focused solution. Methods included workshops, interviews, and prototype testing. In 2023–2024, more than 300 participants from Finland, the UK, Rwanda, Kenya, Vietnam and Indonesia contributed to the process.
Based on the findings from the Discover and Define phases, the core solution must enable interaction in the user's natural language, help identify rehabilitation needs and goals, suggest content such as exercises, contact information, or educational material, monitor adherence, and re-evaluate the user’s progress. The platform must be designed with a globally scalable, open core, allowing other organisations to further develop and implement it in their context.
Prototype testing revealed concerns regarding AI ethics and data security, with participants highlighting the need for transparency and professional oversight. Key features requested include seamless integration with existing systems, intuitive design, personalised content, and support for caregivers. Users also sought voice input, visual aids, educational tools, and offline functionality for those with low literacy or limited connectivity. Professionals expressed interest in AIRe’s open core technology but some were concerned about job displacement. Despite challenges, rehabilitation users showed a strong willingness to use AIRe in their rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation service users have diverse preferences, ranging from in-person rehabilitation to using digital solutions, as well as varying technical skills. To ensure broad accessibility, AIRe must remain user-friendly while accommodating cultural differences and customisation possibilities. Future development should focus on recognising users' technology proficiency and personal patterns using the solution. Core technologies must be refined to improve the accuracy of identifying users' rehabilitation needs and providing personalised content suggestions.
A global community around AIRe will ensure ongoing development and improved access to rehabilitation services. Professionals, including physiotherapists, will acquire new skills while AIRe’s technology can be integrated into research and education, training future practitioners to work with AI solutions in creating personalised rehabilitation plans. AIRe will transform rehabilitation by providing personalised, data-driven support to a service system that is currently unable to meet global demand.
Artificial Intelligence
Human-centred design
