Abstract
Virtual reality (VR) technologies are emerging as novel platforms for physical and cognitive interventions, though applications in communication rehabilitation are scarce. Consultation with end-users on implementation of VR in clinical contexts is a vital first step to investigating the feasibility VR in communication rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to explore the views of professionals with expertise in health, rehabilitation, and VR technology, on the populations that might benefit from VR-based rehabilitation, and potential barriers and facilitators to their use of VR. Thematic content analysis of one interdisciplinary focus group and one in-depth interview identified two content themes relating to the use of VR in rehabilitation, and four themes related to the use of VR to maximize its clinical benefit and uptake. Consideration of these results in the development of VR programs in rehabilitation might lead to better acceptance and implementation of VR for improved health and participation outcomes.