While adopting concepts of positive deviance, our aim is to describe a wheelchair provision process for a child with Spina Bifida in order to: 1) improve comfort and participation, and 2) demonstrate the process outcomes informing service providers
A case study of a 9-years-old boy with Spina Bifida, presenting a pressure injury and neck pain. The parents reported that their son is not using his wheelchair at school. The assessment and intervention process were based on the WHO four-steps of wheelchair service provision, according to international guidelines. With consent, data were recorded using photos, videos and written reporting. QUEST questionnaire served to evaluate the user satisfaction
Following assessment and adaptations, comparison of the sitting position showed a better alignment and a positive effect, reducing neck pain, pressure injury and improving participation at school. QUEST score was 4.
Despite challenges encountered in Lebanon, we demonstrated the problem resolution of the delivery or donation of inappropriate wheelchairs.
Firsthand data can connect with service providers, informing development of process rather than product led solutions, a first step to awareness raising.
Participants will understand the role of physiotherapists in ensuring appropriate wheelchairs, through the WHO four-step wheelchair provision process, that promotes health, independence, and social integration, by adopting the concept of positive deviance in a resource limited setting.
Furthermore, Participants will be encouraged to invest in training on wheelchair provision based on international guidelines to ensure consistent, high-quality service delivery, while also advocating for the inclusion of wheelchair provision as a core competency in physiotherapy curricula.
Finally, session targets policymakers and encourage them to adopt WHO standards and guidelines within national health frameworks.
Wheelchair Provision Guidelines
Assistive Technology
