In our project, we have developed a data
system that is used to capture, organize, and map the current
availability of AT within the targeted countries. Doing this will create
the baseline against which increased access can be measured. It will
also bring to light the gap between availability and need. Understanding
this gap has the potential to encourage key actors to increase access to
AT.
Our technology partner, Dimagi, has developed
the technology system (CommCare)
that is used in this project to collect and provide information about AT
availability. CommCare is open source, is designed for use in
low-resource settings and is a flexible system that can be easily
modified to meet the needs of different users.
In CommCare, information can be collected
through all types of cell phones operating on Android, and is stored and
displayed online. Information is collected by asking users a series of
questions. Questions can be asked and answered in text, and in the local
language.
- WHAT – At a minimum,
information will be collected on what types of AT are available and
any details about the AT that will be useful such as quantity of
supply and cost of product. Other useful details about providers
such as type of organization and what insurance covers the provider
may also be collected.
- WHERE – Information
will be collected on the geographical location of the AT providers.
The specific types of information that will
be collected and displayed will be customized to meet the needs of each
country and community where the project is implemented and can be
adapted as needs change. For example, the Ministry of Health may want to
see the big picture of what types of AT are available across the entire
country through public hospitals, while a person with a disability may
be want to know where is the nearest place she can find a pair of
crutches and how much those crutches will cost.