Development of a multidimensional military readiness assessment

Abstract

There is a need to be able to accurately evaluate whether an injured service member is able to return to duty. An effective assessment would challenge and measures physical and cognitive performance in a military-relevant context. Current assessments are lacking in one or more of these aspects. The simulation and data capture abilities of virtual reality systems are promising for use as the basis of multidimensional assessments. The team has previously developed a military-specific assessment in the Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment (CAREN) called the Readiness Evaluation During simulated Dismounted Operations (REDOp). Due to notable limitations in the original assessment, we have developed the next iteration, REDOp2. The assessment is able to challenge and measure a broader range of physical and cognitive performance domains in a more streamlined fashion. While limited to facilities with a CAREN, REDOp2 has the potential to provide an effective tool for highly trained and experienced wounded service members that require thorough assessment prior to returning to duty to ensure the safety of the team and mission. This methods paper describes the specific limitations in REDOp, how they were addressed in REDOp2, and suggested next steps to prepare the assessment for implementation.