- 作者：Cornelia Henschke ; cornelia.henschke.1@tu-berlin.de
- 关键词：Assistive technology devices ; Duchenne muscular dystrophy ; Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ; Financing ; Qualitative study ; Germany
- 刊名：Health Policy
- 出版年：2012
- 期刊代码：110_01688510
- 类别：med
- 出版时间：May, 2012
- 卷：105
- 期：2-3
- 页码：176-184
- 文件大小：579 K
Objective
The regulations for financing assistive technology devices (ATDs) are complex and fragmented and, thus, might influence adequate provision of these devices to people who need multiple ATDs. This study aims to explore and analyze patients鈥?problems with the provision and financing of ATDs for the following two rare diseases: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).Methods
A survey was conducted by means of semi-standardized questionnaires addressing the issues of coverage decisions for ATDs and problems with provision of ATDs. Information was retrieved from ALS (n = 19) and DMD (n = 14) patients. Conducted interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using qualitative content analysis.
Results
Respondents experienced difficulties with the provision and financing of ATDs. They underlined problems such as long approval processes and a serious bureaucratic burden, which induced inadequate provision of ATDs. Experiences of ALS and DMD respondents frequently were similar, especially regarding financing decisions and the process of decision making by sickness funds.
Conclusion
The results suggest that difficulties in receiving and financing ATDs are common problems among ALS and DMD patients. There is a need for an interdisciplinary approach in the provision of ATDs and their financing, which should be coordinated by case managers.