Prosthetics In Ukraine. User Survey Results
Protez Hub strives to better understand the challenges faced by people with amputations in Ukraine. That is why we conducted a survey to collect data about their experiences, needs, and the quality of services they receive.
The study was conducted in the format of a voluntary survey, which was distributed through social media, contacting prosthetics-orthotics clinics, and SMS. All participants agreed to the processing of personal data. Today we are sharing the key findings that will help make the prosthetics and orthotics industry more effective for everyone who needs it....
Who participated?
The survey covered 169 respondents from different regions, with an average age of 39 years. 86% of respondents have lower limb amputations, 14% have upper limbs. The vast majority of participants are military (73%), and the share of civilians was 27%.
The process of getting a prosthesis
The average time from healing to being fitted with the first prosthesis is 4.5 months. At the same time, 43% of respondents have not been tested to determine their level of activity, mobility or functionality, which is an important factor for prosthetic prescription and further adaptation.
Read more: Ukraine Limb Prosthetics Industry Analysis 2024
Informing and consulting
77% of respondents were immediately familiarized with the state prosthetics program, but only 47% received alternative advice (second opinion) from two or more specialists. It is important to note that 48% did not know how many years of experience and education their prosthetist had.
Comfort and quality of prosthetics
44% of respondents said that their prosthetic socket was uncomfortable, while 54% were generally satisfied with their prosthesis. The majority of respondents (92%) received a permanent prosthesis funded by the state program, but the level of awareness of the prosthetics process remains uneven. For example, 63% of respondents received explanations about the appropriateness of the prescription and different types of prostheses, while 32% did not have complete information about further maintenance and repair.
Read more: The quality of prosthetics is the quality of specialist training
Training and support
Effective use of a prosthesis is impossible without proper training, and 72% of respondents said they had received appropriate training.
Service and satisfaction with services
The average interval for contacting a prosthetic clinic for service is every four months. Less than 1% of respondents received refusals to have their prostheses altered or repaired, and only 1% of service providers reported insufficient funding. In general, 66% of respondents are satisfied with the services of their prosthetic service provider.
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📢 These results allow us to better assess the real state of affairs in the field of prosthetics and orthotics in Ukraine and identify areas for improvement. We thank each and every one who shared their experience - together we can do more!