Commentary on WHO GATE Initiative

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2017 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2016.1224542 · Published: January 1, 2017

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Public Health

Simple Explanation

Assistive technology (AT) is essential to people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) for living and participating in their communities. However, many people with SCI do not have access to adequate assistive technology and qualified services. The World Health Organization (WHO) is addressing this need through the Global Cooperation on Assistive Technology initiative (GATE). GATE is focused on improving access to high-quality, affordable AT world-wide. GATE used a series of world-wide surveys and a Delphi Process to create a list of the 50 essential assistive technologies, similar to the WHO lists of essential medications and immunizations.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
GATE has worked with people around the world to help identify the 50 most essential assistive technologies (AT) to help people with disabilities.
2
This list of essential AT could revolutionize the lives of people with SCI. If the results are similar to previous initiatives for medications and immunizations, the humanitarian assistance funds going to less resourced countries will include provision of essential AT.
3
Project CLASP will consolidate inventory from five international manufacturers in a single hub, so that a variety of locally appropriate wheelchairs for low-income countries can be acquired from a single location, which will improve and streamline the supply-chain for wheelchairs, cushions, and seating-systems worldwide

Research Summary

Assistive technology is essential to people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) for living and participating in their communities. However, many people with SCI do not have access to adequate assistive technology and qualified services. The GATE initiative is powerful in its ability to focus the efforts and talents of people from a wide variety of domains and regions of the world. An appropriate wheelchair and seating system with sufficient training in its usage may be a vehicle to meaningful employment and contributions to community and society, which could reduce dependency and the associated strain placed on family and friends.

Practical Implications

Improved Access to Assistive Technology

The GATE initiative and related efforts aim to increase access to essential, high-quality, and affordable assistive technology worldwide, particularly for individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Global Collaboration and Standardization

The WHO's work with partners like USAID, ISWP, and UCP Wheels fosters international cooperation and the development of guidelines for quality wheelchair service delivery.

Enhanced Independence and Self-Sufficiency

Providing appropriate wheelchairs, cushions, and seating systems, along with adequate training, can lead to greater self-sufficiency, employment opportunities, and community participation for individuals with disabilities.

Study Limitations

1
Current data on the provision and usage of wheelchairs in low-income countries is limited.
2
The US has not ratified the CRPD, potentially affecting its engagement.
3
The long-term impact of the GATE initiative is yet to be fully determined.

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