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Assistive Technologies, Robotics, and Automated Machines in the Health Domain:...
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Assistive Technologies, Robotics, and Automated Machines in the Health Domain: Third Edition

A special issue of Healthcare (ISSN 2227-9032).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 11252

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Daniele Giansanti

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Centre Tisp, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
Interests: biomedical engineering; robotics; artificial intelligence; digital health; rehabilitation; smart technology; cybersecurity; mental health; animal-assisted therapy; social robotics; acceptance; diagnostic pathology and radiology; medical imaging; patient safety; healthcare quality; health assessment; chronic disease
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are excited to announce the third edition of the successful Special Issue on "Assistive Technologies, Robotics, and Automated Machines" in Healthcare. Building on the strong reception of the previous editions, we invite you to contribute your innovative research and expertise to this evolving field.

The fusion of assistive technologies, robotics, and automated systems has immense potential to transform healthcare. These technologies can contribute significantly, both individually and as interconnected systems, advancing care and improving patient outcomes. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), assistive technologies are pivotal in fostering inclusion, particularly for people with disabilities. Their primary goal is to enhance functionality and independence, enabling full participation in all aspects of life. In parallel, care robots have gained substantial attention, especially in robotic surgery, rehabilitation, socially assistive roles, and training for healthcare professionals. Recognized by the Policy Department for Economic, Scientific, and Quality of Life Policies of the European Parliament, they are seen as highly promising. Automated systems are also playing an increasingly critical role in healthcare, influencing decision making, therapeutic interventions, and rehabilitation strategies. Their impact spans error-free medical therapies, improved decision workflows, and direct patient interactions through AI-driven solutions. The integration of these technologies holds strategic significance for the health sector, enabling ambient assisted living through robotics and automation. It also offers individuals the opportunity to receive care and rehabilitation in their homes, enhancing both convenience and efficacy.

This Special Issue covers a broad spectrum of topics, from scientific innovations to clinical applications, with a focus on regulatory, ethical, and societal considerations. We invite authors to submit research on the development and integration of these technologies, either individually or as part of a larger system. Potential topics include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Assistive technologies;
  • Alternative and augmentative communication;
  • Rehabilitation and assistance robotics;
  • Social robots;
  • Automated machines;
  • AI in biomedicine machine ethics;
  • AI in diagnostics and therapy;
  • Moral robots.

We welcome contributions in the form of commentaries, original research articles, short reports, opinions, brief communications, and reviews that address the challenges faced by health systems in this rapidly advancing field.

Prof. Dr. Daniele Giansanti
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Healthcare is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • eHealth
  • mHealth
  • assistive technologies
  • automated systems
  • care robots
  • artificial intelligence

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 547 KB  
Article
The Effectiveness and Usefulness of Assistive Technology Training in Building Workforce Capacity for Rehabilitation and Healthcare Professionals in the MENA Region: A Mixed-Methods Study
by Hassan Izzeddin Sarsak
Healthcare 2026, 14(10), 1362; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14101362 - 15 May 2026
Viewed by 121
Abstract
Purpose: Access to assistive technology (AT) is a fundamental human right and a critical component of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the scarcity of trained professionals remains a significant barrier to AT service provision. This [...] Read more.
Purpose: Access to assistive technology (AT) is a fundamental human right and a critical component of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the scarcity of trained professionals remains a significant barrier to AT service provision. This study evaluates the effectiveness and perceived usefulness of the Assistive Technology Training Program (ATTP), a specialized continuing education initiative designed to build workforce capacity among rehabilitation and healthcare professionals. Methods: A convergent mixed methods design was used to analyze quantitative pre/post-test scores and qualitative focus group open-ended responses. Quantitative data were gathered from 386 participants across 11 MENA countries using a pre- and post-test assessment of AT knowledge. Qualitative utility and participant satisfaction were assessed through a 5-point Likert scale survey evaluating content relevance, trainer expertise, and facilities. Association tests (ANOVA and t-tests) were conducted to identify factors influencing knowledge gain. Results: Participants demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in AT knowledge, with the overall mean score increasing from 3.67 ± 1.13 to 7.50 ± 1.25 (p < 0.001). High levels of satisfaction were reported, with 92% of participants rating the training as “Very Good” or “Excellent” regarding its relevance to clinical needs. Association tests revealed that professional background (p < 0.001), employment status (p = 0.0017), level of education (p = 0.011), and prior training experience (p = 0.026) were significant factors in the magnitude of improvement, although all subgroups achieved significant learning gains. Qualitative thematic analysis per the focus group discussions using the WHO-GATE 5 P framework identified three major themes: (1) Structural Challenges: Issues with Products and Provision point toward a need for better infrastructure and localized supply chains. (2) Human Capital: Personnel barriers emphasize that training shouldn’t just be for professionals, but should extend to caregivers as well. (3) Systemic and Social Change: Policy and People focus on the “soft” side of AT moving toward user-involved guidelines and fighting social stigma to ensure rights are upheld. Conclusions: The ATTP is an impactful educational intervention that significantly enhances the foundational competencies of healthcare professionals in the MENA region. By addressing knowledge gaps and fostering practical skills, the program serves as a preliminary model that demonstrates potential for building regional capacity and supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) #3 related to health and wellbeing and SDG #4 related to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. Further research is required to evaluate its long-term scalability and clinical impact. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assistive Technologies, Robotics, and Automated Machines in the Health Domain: Third Edition)
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17 pages, 913 KB  
Article
Usability and Acceptance of Non-Functional Wearable Prototypes for Maternal Health: A Parallel-Group Pilot Study
by Julia Jockusch, Sophie Schneider, Andrea Hochuli, Flurin Stauffer, Heike Bördgen, Vanessa Hoop, Marianne Simone Joerger-Messerli, Daniel Surbek and Anda-Petronela Radan
Healthcare 2026, 14(5), 618; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14050618 - 28 Feb 2026
Viewed by 792
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Wearable technologies become increasingly important in surveillance of biometric parameters in pregnant women; however, early-stage usability data on wearable form factors specifically designed for pregnant women remain limited. This study evaluated the usability and acceptance of three non-functional wearable garment prototypes [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Wearable technologies become increasingly important in surveillance of biometric parameters in pregnant women; however, early-stage usability data on wearable form factors specifically designed for pregnant women remain limited. This study evaluated the usability and acceptance of three non-functional wearable garment prototypes intended for future breathing exercise guidance and sleep-related applications. The prototypes incorporated sensor dummies that were technically capable of operation but intentionally deactivated for this usability pilot study. Methods: Eighteen pregnant women (second and third trimester) and twelve non-pregnant women tested three prototypes (Bra, Strap, Maternity Belt (hereafter Belt)) for 24 h. Usability was assessed using structured, participant-completed questionnaires addressing fit, material properties, comfort, and wear-related issues immediately after fitting (T0) and after 24 h of wear (T24). Analyses were descriptive and exploratory. Results: Among pregnant women, the Bra prototype showed consistently favorable usability ratings across multiple domains, particularly after extended wear, whereas the Belt demonstrated declining ratings related to fit and comfort over time. The Strap showed intermediate usability with specific strengths related to pressure and friction. In non-pregnant women, usability ratings were largely comparable between the Bra and Strap, with no clear preference pattern. No systematic differences were observed between pregnant and non-pregnant groups. Conclusions: This exploratory usability study suggests that garment form factor plays a critical role in acceptability during pregnancy. The Bra prototype demonstrated the most favorable usability profile among pregnant women, while the Belt revealed design limitations that warrant further modification. These findings provide formative guidance for the development of functional maternal wearables, with future studies integrating objective testing and validated measures to optimize performance and evaluate adherence in larger cohorts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assistive Technologies, Robotics, and Automated Machines in the Health Domain: Third Edition)
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Review

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32 pages, 448 KB  
Review
Innovative Assistive Technologies for Tetraplegia: A Narrative Review of Systematic and Emerging Evidence
by Lorenzo Desideri, Regina Gregori Grgič, Antonia Pirrera and Daniele Giansanti
Healthcare 2026, 14(2), 274; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14020274 - 21 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1185
Abstract
Background: Assistive technologies (ATs) for individuals with tetraplegia have evolved from mechanical aids to complex neurotechnological, digital, and psychosocial systems. However, the evidence base remains fragmented, with heterogeneous methodologies and limited integration across domains. This review synthesizes recent review-level evidence to clarify current [...] Read more.
Background: Assistive technologies (ATs) for individuals with tetraplegia have evolved from mechanical aids to complex neurotechnological, digital, and psychosocial systems. However, the evidence base remains fragmented, with heterogeneous methodologies and limited integration across domains. This review synthesizes recent review-level evidence to clarify current trends, gaps, and directions in ATs for tetraplegia. Methods: A narrative review of reviews was conducted following the ANDJ checklist. PubMed and Scopus were searched for systematic, scoping, and narrative reviews addressing assistive technologies relevant to tetraplegia. After screening, de-duplication, and quality appraisal, 20 reviews were included and synthesized narratively. Results: The included reviews clustered into four main domains: neural and regenerative interfaces, motor and biomechanical assistive systems, digital and adaptive rehabilitation ecosystems, and psychosocial and integrative frameworks. Across domains, evidence highlights a shift toward personalized, adaptive, and interoperable systems, supported by neurotechnologies, robotics, mobile health, and virtual reality. Common limitations include heterogeneous outcome measures, scarcity of longitudinal evidence, limited system interoperability, and persistent inequities in access and adoption. Emerging applications of artificial intelligence support adaptive control, monitoring, and personalization, though robust clinical validation remains limited. Conclusions: This synthesis provides a structured overview of review-level evidence on assistive technologies for tetraplegia. The findings underscore the need for coordinated, multidisciplinary approaches and more rigorous, longitudinal evaluation to support the development of inclusive, human-centered, and interoperable assistive ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assistive Technologies, Robotics, and Automated Machines in the Health Domain: Third Edition)
21 pages, 482 KB  
Review
Assistive Technologies for Individuals with a Disability from a Neurological Condition: A Narrative Review on the Multimodal Integration
by Mirjam Bonanno, Beatrice Saracino, Irene Ciancarelli, Giuseppe Panza, Alfredo Manuli, Giovanni Morone and Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
Healthcare 2025, 13(13), 1580; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13131580 - 1 Jul 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4781
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Neurological disorders often result in a broad spectrum of disabilities that impact mobility, communication, cognition, and sensory processing, leading to significant limitations in independence and quality of life. Assistive technologies (ATs) offer tools to compensate for these impairments, support daily living, and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Neurological disorders often result in a broad spectrum of disabilities that impact mobility, communication, cognition, and sensory processing, leading to significant limitations in independence and quality of life. Assistive technologies (ATs) offer tools to compensate for these impairments, support daily living, and improve quality of life. The World Health Organization encourages the adoption and diffusion of effective assistive technology (AT). This narrative review aims to explore the integration, benefits, and challenges of assistive technologies in individuals with neurological disabilities, focusing on their role across mobility, communication, cognitive, and sensory domains. Methods: A narrative approach was adopted by reviewing relevant studies published between 2014 and 2024. Literature was sourced from PubMed and Scopus using specific keyword combinations related to assistive technology and neurological disorders. Results: Findings highlight the potential of ATs, ranging from traditional aids to intelligent systems like brain–computer interfaces and AI-driven devices, to enhance autonomy, communication, and quality of life. However, significant barriers remain, including usability issues, training requirements, accessibility disparities, limited user involvement in design, and a low diffusion of a health technology assessment approach. Conclusions: Future directions emphasize the need for multidimensional, user-centered solutions that integrate personalization through machine learning and artificial intelligence to ensure long-term adoption and efficacy. For instance, combining brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) with virtual reality (VR) using machine learning algorithms could help monitor cognitive load in real time. Similarly, ATs driven by artificial intelligence technology could be useful to dynamically respond to users’ physiological and behavioral data to optimize support in daily tasks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assistive Technologies, Robotics, and Automated Machines in the Health Domain: Third Edition)
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Other

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15 pages, 5293 KB  
Systematic Review
Embodied Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: A Systematic Review of Robotic Perception, Decision-Making, and Clinical Impact
by Bilal Ahmad Mir, Dur E. Nishwa and Seung Won Lee
Healthcare 2026, 14(5), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14050572 - 25 Feb 2026
Viewed by 1469
Abstract
Background: Embodied artificial intelligence (EAI), integrating advanced AI algorithms with robotic platforms capable of sensing, planning, and acting, has emerged as a transformative approach in healthcare delivery. This systematic review synthesizes evidence on robotic perception, decision-making, and clinical impact of EAI systems [...] Read more.
Background: Embodied artificial intelligence (EAI), integrating advanced AI algorithms with robotic platforms capable of sensing, planning, and acting, has emerged as a transformative approach in healthcare delivery. This systematic review synthesizes evidence on robotic perception, decision-making, and clinical impact of EAI systems in healthcare settings. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, and ACM Digital Library for studies published between January 2020 and August 2025. Seventeen studies met eligibility criteria, spanning four domains: surgical assistance, rehabilitation, hospital logistics, and telepresence. The protocol was prospectively registered in PROSPERO under ID: CRD420261285936. Results: Perception architectures predominantly employed multimodal sensor fusion, combining vision with force/torque, depth, and physiological signals. Decision-making approaches included imitation learning, reinforcement learning, and hybrid symbolic-neural control. Key findings indicate that surgical robots demonstrated consistency advantages in specific experimental tasks, rehabilitation robotics produced statistically significant improvements (SMD = 0.29) across 396 randomized controlled trials, and both logistics and telepresence systems achieved very high operational success levels. Nonetheless, important barriers remain, including limited external validation, small sample sizes, and insufficient cost-effectiveness data. Conclusions: Future research should prioritize standardized benchmarks, prospective multicenter trials, and patient-centered outcome measures to facilitate clinical translation of EAI technologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assistive Technologies, Robotics, and Automated Machines in the Health Domain: Third Edition)
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23 pages, 372 KB  
Systematic Review
Therapeutic Benefits of Robotics and Exoskeletons for Gait and Postural Balance Among Children and Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy: An Overview of Systematic Reviews
by Amal Alharbi, Shouq S. Alhosaini, Shahad S. Alrakebeh and Saleh M. Aloraini
Healthcare 2025, 13(23), 3120; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13233120 - 1 Dec 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1631
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Robotic therapies are emerging as a potential management strategy for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). These devices apply mechanical and electrical forces to regulate neural excitability and promote motor learning. This review aimed to systematically assess and synthesize evidence from published systematic [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Robotic therapies are emerging as a potential management strategy for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). These devices apply mechanical and electrical forces to regulate neural excitability and promote motor learning. This review aimed to systematically assess and synthesize evidence from published systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the therapeutic benefits of robotics and exoskeletons for gait and postural balance in pediatric CP. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and The Cochrane Library was conducted. Two independent reviewers screened records to identify studies that were: (1) written in English and published in peer-reviewed journals; (2) included participants <18 years with a diagnosis of CP; and (3) examined robotic therapies or exoskeletons targeting gait or postural balance. Methodological quality of included reviews was appraised with the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) tool, and certainty of evidence was evaluated using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework. Results: 18 systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria, encompassing 256 primary studies and 5092 participants. Overall methodological quality of the included reviews was rated as moderate to good. A variety of robotic and exoskeleton systems were noted across studies, with heterogeneous protocols and outcomes. Several reviews reported modest improvements in gait and postural balance; however, the findings were inconsistent, and pooled effects, where available, did not yield definitive conclusions regarding efficacy. Conclusions: Robotic and exoskeleton interventions may offer benefits for gait and postural balance in children and adolescents with CP, but the current evidence base remains inconclusive. Additional high-quality research is required to determine effectiveness more definitively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assistive Technologies, Robotics, and Automated Machines in the Health Domain: Third Edition)
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