Dr.Kaushik Murali
Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of uniquely designed mobile vision rehabilitation bus – “Maitri” & delivery of care at a Doorstep Care model in Rural Karnataka.
Materials : A unique Mobile Vision Rehabilitation Bus MAITRI, was designed to provide rehabilitation services at the block level in Rural Karnataka.Details of beneficiaries regarding age,distance saved from travel, associated health issues, barriers overcome based on a questionnaire were studied.
Results: The Maitri model was able to cater to all rehabilitation needs of 42 beneficiaries. Average age – 24 yrs (range – 2- 55yrs) 31% females. 25 had congenital structural abnormalities.70% were compliant to treatment compared to 42% in clinic from similar geography. All the patients cited indirect costs from travel and loss of wages as most important barrier overcome.
Conclusion: Mobile vision rehabilitation bus is an effective way for rehabilitation at doorstep of rural India overcoming barriers of access & affordability.
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