In many developing countries, there is a lack of access to Urinary Management Products (UMP). For people with a permanent disability that results in urinary incontinence; a lack of UMPs results in an inability to participate actively and an increased risk of urinary complications.
While the scale of the problem is difficult to quantify, Motivation Australia has had consistent reports from people living with a disability and service providers in the Pacific Region of a lack of access to affordable UMPs.
Motivation Australia and the Spinal Injuries Association of Fiji have therefore partnered to develop a long term solution to this problem. As a first step, we are running a 12 month trial of provision of UMP monthly kits to up to 50 Fijians. This trial will enable us to confirm the most appropriate UMP components for kits; develop and test training materials to support the provision of UMPs; and identify sustainable ways to provide those who need UMPs with consistent, reliable access to affordable products. Also involved in this project is the National Urology Centre, Fiji Pharmaceutical Services, the Pacific Disability Forum and Paraquad SA.
This project is funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), through the Australian Non-Government Cooperation Programme (ANCP) as well as funds raised by Motivation Australia. A donation by Paralogic of 11,000 nelaton catheters has also been a significant contribution.
The Project duration is August 2014 – March 2016. For more information, contact Kylie Mines