Call For Proposals - Accessibility Audit in Healthcare Facilities in FCT and NOFIC Katsina State at Survive Fistula Healthcare Foundation

Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right, and it is imperative that healthcare facilities are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all individuals including persons with disabilities. Ensuring accessibility in healthcare facilities is paramount to guarantee equitable access to healthcare services for all individuals. Clients with disabilities have unique requirements, including those related to mobility, vision, hearing, and cognition. Recognizing and addressing these diverse needs is essential for delivering patient-centered care. This not only improves the clients experience but also enhances overall healthcare outcomes.

In light of the above, SFHF hereby call for proposal from experienced consultants to conduct and lead accessibility audit in all the organization supported facilities to ensure inclusiveness in the facilities

Objectives

Broad Objectives

The broad objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive accessibility audit in Primary Health Centers (PHCs), Comprehensive Healthcare Centers (CHCs), General Hospitals in FCT and NOFIC Kastina, ensuring that healthcare facilities are inclusive and cater to the diverse needs of all individuals, including those with disabilities

Specific Objective

The specific objectives are to:

• Identify physical accessibility barriers that may hinder access for individuals with disabilities to healthcare services.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals, facility staffs, and individuals with disabilities to gather insights into specific accessibility challenges.
• Evaluate the extent to which healthcare facilities comply with accessibility standards
• Provide actionable recommendations to address identified barriers and enhance overall accessibility in healthcare environments.
• Foster an inclusive healthcare environment for all clients.

SCOPE OF STUDY

The accessibility audit will be conducted in PHCs, CHCs, General Hospitals supported healthcare facilities in FCT and NOFIC Kastina.

Key focus areas:

• Physical Accessibility Assessment: On-site evaluations to assess the physical infrastructure, including entrances, ramps, restrooms, waiting areas, parking and drop off areas for accessibility.
• Access Services (Horizontal Circulation; Accessible Doors; emergency exits, Rooms and Spaces, Directional and Informational Signage, Seats, Tables and Counters, Stairs, Elevators, and Lifts);
•  Usability of Rest Rooms (Accessible Routes to Restrooms; Doorways and Passages; Stalls; Lavatories). These variables will be used to gauge the accessibility level of all    the facilities that will be audited.
• Service Provision: Evaluate the ease of navigation within the facility for individuals with mobility challenges, Assess the availability of assistive devices and supportive personnel for those requiring additional assistance and Review staff training programs to ensure sensitivity and competence in serving individuals with diverse needs.

Deliverables

• A comprehensive report detailing findings and identified accessibility barriers in healthcare facilities.
• Increased awareness among healthcare professionals and facility staffs about the importance of accessibility in healthcare settings.
• A clear and actionable recommendations for addressing identified barriers and ensuring compliance with accessibility standards to the government - policy and decision makers
• Actionable plan for implementing accessibility improvements in healthcare facilities.

Timeline

The accessibility audit is anticipated to be conducted in January, 2024 with a report detailing the findings and recommendations to be delivered in February, 2024

Budget

A budget estimate covering the costs associated with personnel, travel, and any necessary modifications and terms of payment should be developed and submitted along with the proposal.

Conclusion

The accessibility audit in healthcare facilities aligns with the commitment to providing inclusive and equitable healthcare services. By identifying and addressing accessibility barriers, we aim to create healthcare environments that prioritize the diverse needs of all patients.