Addressing Inequity in Assistive Products Through Healthcare Systems in India: A Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56450//JEFI.2025.v3i1Suppl.004Keywords:
Assistive Technology, Inequity in Assistive Technology, Healthcare Equity, Functional ImpairmentAbstract
Background: Assistive technologies (AT) are crucial for enhancing individuality, productivity, and quality of life for persons with functional impairments. Despite their proven profits, significant inequities persist in access to assistive products, particularly in low-and middle-income countries like India. Objective: This review scrutinizes the current landscape of assistive technologies establishment in India, evaluates economic and social returns on investment, and categorizes strategies to address inequities through healthcare system integration. Results: Evidence demonstrates substantial returns on investment for assistive products, with wheelchairs increasing economic productivity by 20-40%, spectacles showing benefit-cost ratios of 5:1, and hearing aids yielding ninefold returns per dollar invested. India has established institutional mechanisms including the National Centre for Assistive Health Technology (NCAHT) and the National List of Essential Assistive Products (NLEAP) to address access gaps. However, challenges remain in policy implementation, funding mechanisms, manufacturing capacity, and last-mile delivery. Conclusion: A multi-pronged approach combining strong policy frameworks, increased public funding, indigenous manufacturing, capacity building, and community engagement is essential to achieve equitable access to assistive technologies through India's healthcare system. Integration of AT into Universal Health Coverage represents a strategic pathway toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 10.
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