In the bustling regions of North West Europe, over 12,000 children grapple with the daily challenges of neurological disorders. For these children, life is often defined by the struggle for mobility, hindered by conditions that demand specialized care and attention. However, despite the strides made in medical science, the landscape of pediatric neurological rehabilitation remains fragmented, lacking the cohesive approach necessary to address the diverse needs of these young patients. Enter RE:HOME, a groundbreaking project poised to redefine the future of pediatric rehabilitation in the region.
At present, the realm of neurological pediatric rehabilitation in North West Europe faces significant hurdles. A lack of standardized procedures hampers the development of comprehensive rehabilitation programs adaptable to various healthcare settings. However, the current absence of specialized exoskeletons for children, presents an exciting opportunity for growth and innovation within the field. By addressing this gap and introducing groundbreaking solutions, we contribute to chance the transformation of the region into a hub of pioneering medical advancements, setting a new standard for pediatric neurological rehabilitation from hospital to home.
RE:HOME represents a paradigm shift in pediatric neurological rehabilitation. Conceived to address the shortcomings of existing practices, this ambitious project sets out to achieve multifaceted objectives aimed at revolutionizing the field:
1. Access to Cutting-Edge Technologies: Central to RE:HOME is the provision of state-of-the-art technological solutions, including novel exoskeleton modules for robot-assisted rehabilitation and smart garments. An innovative IT platform facilitates telemonitoring, ensuring seamless integration of digital technologies into rehabilitation protocols.
2. Standardized Transnational Training: By establishing standardized training programs spanning hospital and home settings, RE:HOME endeavors to empower healthcare professionals across borders. Pilot programs in Belgium and the Netherlands will pave the way for broader implementation, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among diverse healthcare practitioners.
3. Comprehensive Education Initiatives: Recognizing the pivotal role of education, RE:HOME launches an extensive training program targeting healthcare professionals, parents, children, and the wider community. Through enhanced awareness and understanding of rehabilitation technologies, the project aims to dismantle barriers to access and foster a culture of inclusivity.
At the heart of RE:HOME lies a collaborative spirit, exemplified by its diverse consortium of partners. Lead by JUNIA Grande école d'ingénieurs in France, the project boasts an array of partner organizations (13), including patient's associations (3), SMEs (4) and healthcare organizations (6) from all the countries in the consortium, will provide valuable advice from the beginning and throughout the project. RE:HOME is poised to navigate the complexities of pediatric rehabilitation with insight and innovation.
As RE:HOME sets sail on its journey to transform pediatric neurological rehabilitation, its impact promises to extend far beyond the confines of healthcare facilities. By promoting social inclusion and building local capacity for change, the project seeks to cultivate a more compassionate and supportive society—one where every child, regardless of their neurological condition, has the opportunity to thrive.