Opening the GATE: systems thinking from the global assistive technology alliance. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2020 Jul;15(5):484-490
Date
04/17/2020Pubmed ID
32298159DOI
10.1080/17483107.2020.1738565Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85084075884 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 8 CitationsAbstract
Purpose: This paper describes international actions to collaborate in the assistive technology (AT) arena and provides an update of programmes supporting AT globally. Methods: The World Health Organisation (WHO) identifies the severe global uneven distribution of resources, expertise and extensive unmet need for AT, as well the optimistic substantial capability for innovations and developments in appropriate and sustainable AT design, development and delivery. Systems thinking and market shaping are identified as means to address these challenges and leverage the ingenuity and expertise of AT stakeholders. Results: This paper is a 'call to action', showcasing emerging AT networks as exemplars of a distributed, but integrated mechanism for addressing AT needs globally, and describing the Global Alliance of Assistive Technology Organisations (GAATO) as a vehicle to facilitate this global networking. Conclusion: Partners in this Global Alliance aim to advance the field of assistive technology by promoting shared research, policy advocacy, educating people and organisations within and outside the field, teaching, training and knowledge transfer by pulling together broad-based membership organisations.Implications for RehabilitationCollegial, cross discipline and multi-stakeholder collaborations support assistive technology research and practice.Knowledge exchange within and across countries and regions is mutually beneficial.Self-organising assistive technology communities are emerging and supported by global movements such as WHO GATE and GAATO.
Author List
Layton N, Bell D, Buning ME, Chen SC, Contepomi S, Delgado Ramos V, Hoogerwerf EJ, Inoue T, Moon I, Seymour N, Smith RO, de Witte LAuthor
Roger Smith PhD Professor in the Occupational Science & Technology department at University of Wisconsin - MilwaukeeMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
Global HealthHealth Services Accessibility
Humans
Self-Help Devices