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Valuation of an exoskeleton based on the capability approach

Gijzen, R. (2017) Valuation of an exoskeleton based on the capability approach.

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Abstract:BACKGROUND An exoskeleton helps individuals with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) by letting them stand up straight, it facilitates in ambulation and climbing stairs. Only a limited number of individuals have access to this device due to the lack of reimbursement policies. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to determine and valuate the capabilities an exoskeleton creates or improves and to compare it with the net cost. RESULTS According to the participants 57.4% of the economic value of the exoskeleton consists of health-related capabilities. The capability to participate in activities comes in second (16.4%). The economic value of an exoskeleton is €9,071 per year and the net cost is €20,431 per year. Changes in the health costs are excluded due to lack of data. CONCLUSION The cost of an exoskeleton should be fully reimbursed if it results in a decline in health-bill of €11,360 on a yearly basis. Otherwise we should wait until the material cost (exoskeleton, crutches etc.) declines to €36,641 or the lifespan increases to 12 years.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:44 medicine, 50 technical science in general, 83 economics
Programme:Industrial Engineering and Management MSc (60029)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/73074
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