It has been noted that clinicians in Africa are forced to use instrument measures that were developed and validated either for American and European children which are quite limited. It is therefore imperative that African Researchers put efforts together to develop culturally sensitive measures.
Some of the most commonly used tools for measuring outcomes of rehabilitation in children with disabilities are the PEDI, WeeFIM and GMFM among many others. However, little is known on appropriate tools available for children in Africa
I may not rule out that there are no Medical equipment and devices designers in Africa. However, we must admit challenges in our research institution among them states of the art laboratories as well as funding for such research. Our universities heavily rely on the Government capitation for almost daily running of their affairs.
This must not limit our capability to invention and research. African Universities need to solve African based problems in the societies. Much as we take our studies in Universities outside African let's gear our research to solving the prevalent problems and bridging the evincing gaps in our society.
I acknowledge the much input across the world to Africa in academia particularly the scholarships and grants.
Yes, I agree with you that most medical equipment and devices are not developed and validated for African use. This is a timely call
Dear Margaret
A qualitative investigation of the role of paediatric rehabilitation professionals in rural South Africa: Rehabilitation professionals’ perspectives
Article in South African Journal of Physiotherapy 72(1):1-7 · February 2016
DOI: 10.4102/sajp.v72i1.290
Kind regards
Andoret
Thanks Joel. I agree with you entirely. There is a lot that African Researchers can do to bridge the gap that has existed for quite some time now. It is quite imperative that African researchers share ideas and promote collaborative research among African Universities. Given your background and what you do, can you share what you are doing in terms of innovation of African tools/instruments/questionnaires for children with disabilities for measuring the impact of interventions given
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