Sensitization Training on Disability Assessment and Early Identification

Building Capacity for Inclusive Rehabilitation Services

Opening remarks from the Director of Medical Services, Kisumu County, together with trainers and participants during the disability assessment training at the Kisumu County training facility.

A Collaborative Approach to Disability Assessment

The sensitization training brought together rehabilitation officers, medical personnel, CHAs, and CHPs from Kisumu and Homa Bay Counties. The training was conducted in two phases to ensure comprehensive coverage across both counties:

The training covered standardized disability assessment and categorization, early identification of disabilities, and the importance of timely intervention and referral to rehabilitation services.

Training Objectives for Rehabilitation Officers and Medical Personnel

The training on disability assessment and categorization was designed to achieve the following objectives:

1. Build Capacity in Standardized Assessment

To build the capacity of rehabilitation officers and medical personnel in standardized disability assessment and categorization in line with the new national guidelines.

2. Improve Assessment Quality

To improve the quality, accuracy, and consistency of disability assessments conducted during SHINE project outreaches.

The Administrator of Nyabondo Centre, Sr. Ludovena, together with trainers from the Ministry of Health National Rehabilitation Unit, the County Rehabilitation Coordinator for Kisumu, and the Nyabondo SHINE Programs Coordinator during the disability assessment training in Kisumu.

3. Enhance Early Identification

To enhance early identification of persons with disabilities at community and facility levels through improved screening and detection protocols.

4. Strengthen Linkage to Services

To strengthen the linkage between assessment and service provision, including rehabilitation services, assistive devices, corrective surgeries, and therapy.

5. Improve NCPWD Registration

To improve registration of persons with disabilities with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) through proper assessment and documentation.

6. Equip with Practical Skills

To equip rehabilitation officers and medical personnel with practical skills and tools for conducting functional and medical assessments in both outreach and facility settings.

7. Strengthen Referral Pathways

To strengthen referral pathways and coordination among health facilities, community structures, and rehabilitation service providers to ensure seamless continuity of care.

8. Promote Rights-Based Approach

To promote a rights-based and inclusive approach to disability assessment and service delivery in Kisumu County and Homa Bay County.

The Director of Medical Services for Kisumu County delivering opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of standardized disability assessment for improved service delivery.

Sensitization for CHAs, CHPs, and OPDs on Early Identification

In addition to the training for rehabilitation officers and medical personnel, sensitization sessions were conducted for Community Health Assistants (CHAs), Community Health Practitioners (CHPs), and Outpatient Department (OPD) staff in both counties.

Objectives of the Sensitization

The sensitization aimed to achieve the following objectives:

1. Raise Awareness on Early Identification

To raise awareness among CHAs, CHPs, and OPD staff on the importance of early identification of disabilities in children and adults at the community and facility levels.

2. Build Screening Capacity

To equip community health workers with basic screening skills for early detection of physical, sensory, and developmental disabilities.

3. Promote Prevention Awareness

To promote awareness of prevention strategies for disabilities, including maternal and child health interventions, immunization, and injury prevention.

4. Strengthen Referral Networks

To strengthen referral networks between community health workers, health facilities, and rehabilitation service providers.

5. Enhance Documentation and Reporting

To improve documentation and reporting of identified cases through proper screening tools and referral forms.

6. Foster Community Engagement

To foster community engagement and awareness on disability inclusion, reducing stigma and promoting acceptance of persons with disabilities.

7. Link Communities to Services

To enhance linkages between communities and available services, including rehabilitation services, assistive devices, and social protection programs.

Training Schedule

The training schedule was designed to ensure comprehensive coverage across both counties:

Participants from Homa Bay County engaged in group discussions during the rehabilitation officer and medical personnel training session.

Key Outcomes

The sensitization training and workshops delivered the following key outcomes:

For Rehabilitation Officers and Medical Personnel

• Improved knowledge and skills in standardized disability assessment and categorization
• Enhanced capacity to conduct functional and medical assessments accurately
• Stronger referral pathways between health facilities and rehabilitation service providers
• Better understanding of NCPWD registration processes and documentation requirements
• Increased confidence in identifying and managing disability cases

For CHAs, CHPs, and OPDs

• Enhanced awareness of early identification and intervention strategies
• Improved screening and detection skills at the community level
• Stronger referral networks and community linkages
• Better understanding of disability prevention and inclusion

Impact at a Glance

• 50+ rehabilitation officers trained in standardized disability assessment.
• 80+ medical personnel equipped with practical assessment skills.
• 120+ CHAs and CHPs sensitized on early identification and intervention.
• 2 Counties with improved disability assessment capacity.
• Strengthened referral pathways between communities and rehabilitation services.
• Improved NCPWD registration processes and documentation.
• Enhanced community awareness on disability inclusion and prevention.

What’s Next

As part of the SHINE Project’s ongoing activities, the following initiatives are planned: