A feasibility study into the economic, technical, commercial and financial viability of providing innovative flexible prosthetic devices to limb-difference patients in Sri Lanka

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"**Challenge**In Sri Lanka limb-loss is a recognised country wide-challenge with about two-thirds of those with limb-differences facing unemployment forcing many to turn to begging on the streets and becoming marginalised by the rest of society.Despite the scale of the challenge, there are few viable upper-limb prosthetic devices available for those in need Where available they are either a fully artificial-prosthetic with no-functionality and poor-comfort often resulting in device abandonment or; a rigid, mechanical-prosthesis (spring-loaded, opening through shoulder extension). Such devices offer limited-functionality (useful for a few simple tasks), poor adaptation to body-shape eliminating large groups of users and are prohibitively expensive(\>£10,000). As a result, it is estimated that \>90% of limb-difference patients in Sri Lanka have no access to prostheses, preventing the fulfilment of normal activities impacting employment, self-esteem, and social acceptance.**Our Plan**Building on a patented upper-limb prosthesis developed for the UK-market, we seek to understand the potential for innovative, low-cost, comfortable device in developing countries, where we expect a sizeable commercial opportunity and ability deliver significant humanitarian-benefits.Working with Jaffna Jaipur Centre for Disability Rehabilitation (JJCDR) and London South Bank University (LSBU), we intend to undertake a 6-month technical, commercial and financial-feasibility study to understand the key challenges i.e. affordability/functionality/culturally/amputation-type. As well as explore the local stakeholders for the supply, manufacture, distribution and sale of prosthesis.**Key Activities*** User Needs Analysis- 100 limb-loss patients surveyed & 20 user's assessed* Wider-stakeholder analysis to better understand healthcare delivery in Sri Lanka* Regional IP/FtO analysis* Supply chain/distribution analysis* Technical/Commercial/Financial/Logistical feasibility studyOur prosthesis are \>20x more affordable than current solutions therefore overcome current adoption barriers, has a patented- soft socket so it is easy to fit and grow with the amputee -empowering individuals to take control over their own disability.**SDG*** SDG3: good health and well-being* SDG8: decent work and economic growth**Expected Impacts*** Make upper limb prosthesis widely available* Provide a prosthesis that is suitable for all ages* Reduce abandonment rates* Overcome the lack of trained prosthesis personnel:* Creation of direct jobs* Improved employment levels in amputee population* Improved social inclusion for amputees-* Improved gender equality* Improved mental well being"