Problem being addressed
Women have limited opportunities to see a gynecologist in rural Ghana, where access to care, health resources and personnel are scarce. In order for a physician to practice effectively, it is crucial for him/her to have an adequate examination table especially in limited-resource settings. Exams are difficult without a proper examination table.
Detailed description of the solution
The device is a portable table designed to be carried in a backpack. The device has an adjustable trunk height and collapsible frame. The device is also padded and includes stirrups.
Design
- Design: The Portable Exam Table was designed at the University of Michigan. The idea was first developed by a group of 12 undergraduate students during the summer of 2008 in Ghana. Link available here.
When and where it was tested/implemented
This device was tested and surveyed in Ghana.
References
Peer-reviewed publication
Perosky, Joseph E., Adam P. Gienapp, Rebecca N. Rabban, Anthony A. Ofosu, James G. T. Bradshaw, and Kathleen H. Sienko. "Designing a Portable Gynecological Examination Table: Improving Access to Antenatal Care in Rural Ghana." International Journal for Service Learning in Engineering 7.1 (2012): 1-14. Print.