Expression of interest: Focus group on access to specialized assistive products for individuals with cerebral palsy

The Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI), a WHO Collaborating Centre on Assistive Technology, in collaboration with the International Cerebral Palsy Society (ICPS), is hosting a series of focus groups to examine key challenges and gather insights on practical solutions to improve access to specialized assistive products for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP).

The discussion will inform the WHO UNICEF Global assistive technology road map – Consultation series: Exploring the full potential of localized assistive technology production, which will explore the benefits, challenges, and opportunities of localized production within the assistive technology supply chain. It will bring together a range of stakeholders to discuss innovations, share experiences, and identify actionable strategies for improving access to assistive technology through complementary global and local production models. The outcomes of the focus group discussions will play a pivotal role in shaping these conversations and the broader roadmap.

All sessions will be recorded and transcribed. The information collected will be stored securely, anonymised and used only for the focus group and consultation analysis and reporting. No audio from the sessions will be used publicly.

Click the links below to register for the different sessions.

Session 1: Problem framing
Date: 24th March 2025, 2pm-4pm(GMT)

Main themes:

• Severity and device needs
• CP severity (5-grade classification)
• Range of product categories (therapeutic/rehab devices, walkers, orthotics, wheelchairs, bedding)
• Availability and access
• Comparing LMICs vs. High-Income Countries (HICs)
• Affordability and logistical barriers
• Impact on early intervention, education, and social access

Desired outcomes:

• Understanding current gaps
• Collecting personal experiences and stories
• Setting the stage for deeper exploration in Session 2.

In this session, we will:

1. Explore the challenges faced by individuals with CP in accessing bespoke or specialized products, particularly where local production is unavailable or limited.
2. Highlight the impact of limited access, including affordability, logistical barriers, and delays in receiving products.
3. Share real-world experiences and solutions to bridge critical gaps in product availability.
4. Develop actionable strategies to inform discussions at the Global Assistive Technology Roadmap—Consultation Series and contribute to the global roadmap.
   

Session 2: Solution-focused discussion

Date: 31st March 2025, 2pm-4pm(GMT)

Main themes:

• Action and collaboration
• Mapping current efforts

In this session, we will discuss:

1. Potential interventions to improve access and reduce costs
2. Roles and responsibilities of stakeholders (e.g., policy, funding, manufacturing)
3. Showcasing existing products and personalization approaches
4. Case studies where local production (LMIC/HIC) has succeeded
5. Defining next steps, partnerships, and advocacy strategies
6. Drafting a roadmap for improved access and innovation.