Individuals with lower limb amputation fitted with conventional artificial limbs often experience continuous socket-related discomfort leading to a dramatic decrease in quality of life. Most of these functional issues can be overcome by replacing the socket with a surgically implanted bone-anchored prosthesis attached directly to the residual bone using an osseointegrated fixation.[1-31] Government organizations are facing challenges in adjusting procedures to accommodate the emergence of bone-anchored prostheses.[32-35] This study shares the knowledge gained by the Queensland Artificial Limb Service (QALS) an Australian State government organization, while implementing a procedure for fair and equitable provision of bone-anchored prostheses care.
Aim:
The aim of this study was to share some insights drawn from QALS’ experience with strong emphasis on barriers and facilitators encountered when implementing procedure for provision of bone-anchored prostheses care in Queensland, Australia.
Method:
Barriers and facilitators were identified over nearly 3 years following typical phases of action research led by QALS’ management team and researchers who consulted key stakeholders (e.g., 18 Queensland - based consumers, 3 prosthetists, 2 multidisciplinary clinical teams).
Relation
16th International Society of Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO) World Congress, Cape Town, South Africa 8-11 May 2017
Relation
16th International Society of Prosthetics and Orthotics World Congress Book of Abstracts / pp.360