Evaluation the findings of WHO rapid assistive technology assessment (rATA) in Iraq: A field-based survey

Abstract

The objective of this population-based study was to assess the use, sources, payers, barriers, need, and unmet need of assistive products (AP) in the population of Iraq using the Rapid Assistive Technology Assessment (rATA) survey. The survey included a representative national sample from six governorates, including 36 cities/districts that cover all the country. In total 12,021 respondents' data were included in the data analysis. A total, of 16.4% of the sample reported use of AP, and 22.8% reported being in need of AP. Children and adolescents (≤17 years), seniors (≥80 years), and people living in rural areas had lower access to APs. The main sources of funding were out-of-pocket (57.6%), followed by friends and family (31.2%), government (10.1%), and NGOs (4.8%). Furthermore, 58%, 27.3% and 12.2% APs were obtained from the private sector, friends and family, and the government, respectively. The main barriers facing people in need to get APs were inability to afford (43.6%), no support (22.3%), unavailability of APs (11.5%), stigma (4.6%), and no time available (3.5%). It is the government's responsibility to provide AP, in addition to suitable environments (sidewalks, transportation, and public buildings) that are friendly to people with wheelchairs and crutches.

Keywords: Iraq; WHO rapid assistive technology assessment; assistive devices; assistive technology; rATA survey.