Abstract
Although some hesitate to acknowledge the topic, access to healthcare is an ongoing issue in society today, with many of the root causes stemming from inequity. By definition, inequity refers to something that lacks fairness. However, inequity in healthcare far exceeds this simple definition, as it is shaped by factors including resource availability, socioeconomic status, and vulnerability. My technical and STS research papers both focus on resource availability and limited access to health resources, especially amongst vulnerable populations and those of lower socioeconomic status. These groups do not receive the same quality of healthcare as others, contributing to higher rates of disease and morbidity.
My technical paper addresses this problem by creating an accessible, inflatable, smart insole to monitor and correct foot imbalances. Building upon primary research in this area, a prototype will be developed to allow complete user control and adaptability. Offering a singular solution to a host of problems, my technical project seeks to design a more readily available, durable product that can serve all people, regardless of background or socioeconomic status.
My STS research paper, on the other hand, investigates and argues for the unique role that emergency medical providers play in bringing healthcare to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, unhoused, or those with disabilities. Relying on a literature review of current EMS practices as well as personal experience as an EMT at a local rescue squad, this work culminates in a critique of prehospital community health initiatives, offering suggestions for reform.
Both my technical and STS research contribute to the larger problem of reduced healthcare accessibility, but vary in scope and reach. While the inflatable orthotic offers the promise of an affordable medical device able to be customized by the user, this design only marginally expands the field by combining two individually researched components, personal metrics and adjustability. Acting more as a proof-of-concept device, the product prototype has the potential to reach a larger population and reduce healthcare device costs if the insole designs are publicly available, allowing anyone to print an inexpensive model. Although currently falling short of this goal, upon commercial assembly of all components with low-cost, the orthotic could be an affordable, off-the-shelf solution for chronic foot pain, diabetic foot ulcers, and lower limb injuries, reducing inaccessibility.
While my technical research focuses on the development of a tangible orthotic device, my STS research contributes more deeply to accessibility by synthesizing current work and offering a unique perspective, backed in experience. After creating an argument for the undeniable role of EMS providers in acting as a bridge between home and hospital in more ways than simple transport, I review the efficacy of local community health initiatives, discussing potential issues and proposing solutions for scaleup. While perspectives of EMS providers in larger cities and opinions of those in healthcare-related policy are necessary, this analysis offers a cursory examination of an often under-researched facet of healthcare accessibility, the prehospital system, which has the potential to increase accessibility within communities themselves.
I would like to thank my capstone team, Olivia, Christian, Hannah, and Kasey, for their hard work and dedication to our project, as well as their friendship throughout the school year. Additionally, I am so appreciative of the support from Dr. Allen and Dr. Russell throughout the development of our prototype. Finally, I’m incredibly grateful for the knowledge, assistance, and commitment of Dr. Wylie, as well as her guidance in research and writing.
