Step content: After the user has been using the new wheelchair for a while, the follow up is key to ensure that the provided wheelchair continues to meet the individual user’s needs and if not, refers the users to the services that he/she may need including maintenance and repairs.

Planning considerations: The educator needs to understand how follow up occurs in the context. Will need access to literature and to a database of case studies.

Location/facilities: Classroom environment with laptop/stationary computer and overhead projector.

Human resources: Trained educator. Consider inviting community workers or leaders that currently conduct follow up in the communities. Invite wheelchair users and/or wheelchair vendors to explain and/or demonstrate processes for getting maintenance and repair services.

How to teach the content:

• Invite wheelchair users to conduct follow ups during your practice (e.g. clients for your clinic, partner with user’s organizations, sports club). Be prepared to refer users to services that they may need after identifying potential issues with follow up. Conduct a “wheelchair wash” clinic if relevant to your context.

• WHO maintenance poster.

• WHO maintenance video.

• Case studies based on context.

Recommended equipment and tools:

• If practicals are conducted with real users, basic maintenance tools (e.g. rags, Allen Wrenches, screw drivers, rubber mallet). 

Documentation:

• Local follow-up form and/or WHO follow up form.

• Directory/referral maps – problem solving & referrals.

Other comments related to contextual adaptation/implementation: 

• Depending on the context and the professional role, this step may include more in-depth education on maintenance and repairs (e.g. how to patch a tube, how to change bearings and casters, how to dismantle front casters for proper cleaning). Take into consideration cultural appropriateness (e.g. pressure test).

• If you are not including Step 6 (Fitting) consider teaching the learning objectives regarding the processes involved in fitting and the application of that step, as these knowledge and skills are required to complete an appropriate follow up. 

Learning Objective

Explain the purpose of follow-up and whom follow-up is most important for.

How to Teach

Lecture (online or in-person) may include Instructional video and slides.

Case studies.

Relevant literature.

How to Evaluate

Written exam.

Case studies.

Learning Objective

Describe a variety of contextually appropriate follow up procedures.

How to Teach

Instructional video and slides.

Case studies.

Group activities.

Relevant literature

You can use this reading from an occupational therapy program at University of Jordan, Jordan.

How to Evaluate

Practical examination.

Class observation student’s performance.

Written exam.

Learning Objective

Demonstrate a follow up procedure.

How to Teach

Explanation and demonstration.

Instructional video and slides.

Case studies.

Group activities.

Relevant literature.

How to Evaluate

Written exam.

Practical examination.

Class observation student’s performance.

Case report.

Learning Objective

Demonstrate a maintenance procedure.

How to Teach

Explanation and demonstration.

Instructional video and slides

Case studies.

Group activities.

Relevant literature.

How to Evaluate

Written exam.

Practical examination.

Class observation student’s performance.

Case report.