Examining Outcomes Regarding Delivery of Wheelchairs to Children With Disabilities Through the Ugandan Wheelchair Project

PURPOSE: To assess the effects of wheelchair (WC) delivery and WC training on mobility of children with disabilities (CWD) and identify potential solutions for improving WC access in Ugandan CWD through experiential learning opportunities involving physical therapy students and residents. METHODS: Using a pre and posttest cohort design, 35 nonambulatory Ugandan children participated in a seating and mobility clinic through the Ugandan Wheelchair Project. Functional mobility and caregiver burden were the primary outcomes assessed in this study utilizing the mobility domain of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory. Secondary outcome measures captured happiness, quality of life, and participation using the Smiley Faces Assessment Scale, Quality of Life survey modified from the Pediatric Quality of Life survey, and Picture My Participation, respectively. RESULTS: Scores from the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory and Smiley Faces Assessment demonstrated statistically significant improvements in mobility for CWD, caregiver burden, and children's happiness. Summary data collected from the Quality of Life survey and Picture My Participation offered suggestions to improve and guide future efforts around WC delivery in Uganda. CONCLUSIONS: Improved mobility and happiness for Ugandan CWD can be created through global experiential learning opportunities involving WC delivery.