Development of Priority Assistive Product Lists in Three African Countries

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Disability Studies
• Health Policy

Background:

• Assistive products (APs) are vital for improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and functional limitations.
• National Assistive Product Lists (APLs) are key to enhancing access to these essential products.
• Understanding variations in APL development can inform better AP service delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the influence of the World Health Organization's 5Ps model on national APL development in Malawi, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.
• To identify factors contributing to differences in national APLs across these three countries.
• To provide insights for enhancing AP service delivery systems.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews were conducted with 12 key representatives from government and non-state organizations involved in APL development.
• Directed content analysis was used to analyze interview data, guided by the 5Ps framework (people, personnel, policy, provision, products).
• Comparative analysis of APL development processes across Malawi, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.

Main Results:

• Significant differences were observed in the national APLs of Malawi, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.
• Population needs (people) were the primary driver for product selection criteria in APL development.
• Provision systems were often fragmented and donor-dependent, lacking public-private coordination; no standalone AT policies were identified during APL development.

Conclusions:

• National APLs are substantially influenced by country-specific contexts, including population needs and existing systems.
• Collaborative APL development that prioritizes population needs and local context is essential for effective assistive product access.
• Addressing fragmentation in provision systems and policy development is crucial for strengthening AP service delivery.