Title : Assessing Assistive Technology (AT) use and unmet need in a rural-serving tertiary hospital in India: Evidence from a cross-sectional pilot survey
Abstract:
Assistive Technology (AT) is essential for improving functioning and participation among people with disabilities, yet access remains limited in many low- and middle-income countries. Evidence on AT needs and access barriers in rural India remains scarce. This study aimed to assess AT use, unmet needs, and barriers among individuals attending a rural-serving tertiary hospital.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional pilot survey among 1,004 individuals attending outpatient of a selected tertiary care institute. Participants were selected using systematic sampling and interviewed using the WHO Rapid Assistive Technology Assessment (rATA) questionnaire. Descriptive analyses were performed to estimate AT use, unmet needs, sources of devices, payment mechanisms, and satisfaction.
Results: Overall, 26.5% of participants reported using at least one assistive device, while 8.6% reported unmet needs. Visual impairment was the most common functional difficulty (26.2%), and spectacles accounted for 84.6% of devices used. Rural participants demonstrated higher AT use and unmet needs than urban participants. Most devices were obtained from private providers (71.8%), and 48.9% of users paid out-of-pocket. Major barriers included lack of awareness, financial constraints, and limited institutional support.
Conclusion: Significant gaps in access to assistive technologies persist in rural India. Strengthening public-sector provision, improving financial protection mechanisms, and integrating assistive technology services within primary healthcare systems could improve equitable access.
