Introduction / Rationale: The primary mode of wheelchair distribution in low-resource countries is through non-governmental organizations nonprofits from outside countries. However, donated wheelchairs are often incompatible with local rural environments. This presentation will examine an innovative program of wheelchair provision where an interprofessional team provides wheelchairs and services specific to the exact needs of children and adults in low-resource rural communities.
Objectives:
- Participants will discern how global partnerships can serve rural communities therapeutic needs for functional mobility.
- Participants will identify the process and products utilized in an innovative interprofessional outreach for wheelchair provision in global rural communities.
Methods / Approach: An interprofessional team comprising of occupational therapy, physiotherapy, assistive technology, and trades travel to low-resource rural communities and in partnership with local community health care workers identify and assess individuals with functional mobility challenges. Wheelchairs designed specifically for rural habitats are customized for individuals according to needs identified during the assessment process. Various wheelchair products will be overviewed during the presentation.
Results / Practice Implications: A model of wheelchair provision has been established where consumer needs are addressed through customized wheeled mobility designed for the rural terrain and climate of their region. A decision tree to direct appropriate provision has been developed and implemented. The team has collaborated with wheelchair manufacturers to continue product design.
Conclusion / Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: Culturally appropriate wheelchair provision has been established utilizing an interprofessional model and products appropriate for low-resource rural regions.