Assistive Technology Ecosystem

The complete network of interconnected elements required for assistive technology to be effectively provided, adopted, and sustained, including the technology itself, trained professionals, assessment and fitting services, maintenance and repair infrastructure, funding mechanisms, policy frameworks, and user support systems. The ecosystem concept highlights that AT success depends on far more than the device — it requires functioning systems at micro (individual user), meso (service provider), and macro (national/international) levels. In many Global South countries, ecosystem gaps at all levels limit AT impact even when devices are available.