WHO/Europe has launched a free guide that offers a practical framework to help countries and stakeholders improve access to assistive technology (AT), through better understanding of AT markets and targeted interventions to address market shortcomings.

Released with funding from ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, the new ‘Guide for assistive technology market assessment and shaping’ is designed for all stakeholders working to scale up access to assistive products and services.

Assistive technology encompasses a wide range of devices, such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, prosthetics, and communication devices, which enable disabled and older people and those with particular health conditions to live independently and participate fully in society.

Yet, globally, while more than 2.5 billion elderly or disabled people need one or more assistive products, nearly one billion of them are denied access.

The guide refers to the “market” as an economic system that includes investment, production, distribution, and pricing of goods and services led by supply and demand from businesses and individuals.

Shirin Kiani, Technical Officer for Disability, Assistive Technology, Rehabilitation and Ear/Eye Care at WHO/Europe, explained: “This WHO publication is unique because it offers a clear, actionable framework for assessing and transforming assistive technology markets, ensuring more people have access to life-changing products.

“It’s a must-read for policymakers, advocates and organisations because it provides practical tools, real-world examples and proven strategies to make assistive technology more affordable, inclusive and effective for everyone who needs it.”

The guide outlines key concepts such as market conditions, externalities, and stakeholders. It details a six-step approach to market shaping: identifying target markets, assessing market shortcomings, diagnosing root causes, identifying and prioritising market-shaping options, implementing interventions, and monitoring and evaluating results.

It emphasises the importance of collaboration with the private sector and provides practical tools and resources for conducting market assessments.

The guide further aims to enhance access to AT by identifying market inefficiencies, and it recommends interventions aimed at reducing costs, increasing market information, balancing demand and supply, and improving access to finance.