Mobility & Assistive Technology Access

Session virtual Link

Digital Session: Meeting ID: 992 4723 0573
Hosts Ottobock: It develops “wearable human bionics” – medical technology products for people with limited mobility in the fields of Prosthetics, Orthotics and Human Mobility (wheelchairs). The company, founded in 1919, also treats patients in its Patient Care division. Ottobock’s mission: Enhancing the quality of life and health economic benefits of those they serve
Chair Prof. Khama Rogo, Lead Health Specialist, African Institute for Health Transformation
Speakers
  • Alison End Fineberg, Director ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology
  • Frederic Seghers, Director Assistive Technologies, Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI)
  • Dr. Berit Hamer, Director Governmental Affairs & International Cooperation Ottobock SE & Co. KgaA
  • Davide Naggi, CEO, CoRSU Rehabilitation Hospital
  • Sabaa Akintola, Activist for Amputees, Prosthetic user
  • Fatma Mohamed, CEO Northern Nomadic Disabled Persons’ Organization (NONDO)
   
Session abstract

The rising need for assistive technology globally, linked to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), represents a major challenge for current health systems

Mobility devices and related rehabilitation are critical to health and wellbeing, enabling active participation in society and the leading of an independent and dignified life. Nonetheless, today in many low- and middle- income countries, over 90 percent of persons in need do not
have access to such products and services, often exposing them to poverty and exclusion.

COVID-19 has once again highlighted the importance of assistive technology, as the pandemic has disrupted services for assistive technology, adversely affecting persons with disabilities and/or limited mobility.

Therefore, multi-sectoral partners have joined and called for action to improve affordable access to quality assistive technology such as mobility aids. Some governments in Sub-Saharan Africa have already taken first steps in assessing the needs and developing strategies for country-wide service provision.

The discussion will explore:

  • What needs to be done to improve access to quality mobility devices and services as part of national public and global health strategies?
  • What role can the private sector play in these strategies?
  • How can new technologies contribute to scaling up these services?
Session objectives
  • To clarify what assistive technologies and mobility devices are and why they are critical for health, GDP and SDG achievement
  • To introduce and discuss strategies and instruments to improve access and quality of care for mobility devices
  • To present and and discuss possible country approaches in East Africa
   

Event Timeslots (1)

ROOM 2 ALBERT
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PD 01