Clubfoot treatment model for developing countries

Purpose: CURE Clubfoot Worldwide (CCW) was established by CURE International in 2006 to eradicate clubfoot as a lifelong disability in the developing world. CCW has created an effective implementation model for clubfoot treatment programs.

Data: The incidence of clubfoot is approximately 1 out of every 750 births, making it the most common congenital physical disability worldwide. In 2010, over 200,000 children will be born with clubfoot in the developing world. Being disabled in a developing country decreases the chance of receiving education and employment.

Methods: CCW Program Model: 1. Develop partnerships with donors, NGOs and government agencies. 2. Establish a network of treatment clinics throughout the country. 3. Train medical professionals in the non-surgical Ponseti Method of treatment. 4. Introduce a standardized clubfoot medical record and data collection/analysis system. 5. Train clinic counselors for working with parents. 6. Create awareness campaigns. 7. Establish a sustainability plan.

Results: 1. Countrywide programs have been established in 15 countries, with more than 8,000 children treated. 2. $250/child to treat clubfoot. 3. Over 40 formal partnerships have been created with international organizations, ministries of health, medical associations, and teaching hospitals. 4. More than 750 nationals have been trained. 5. The counseling program has decreased patient drop-out.

Recommendations: 1. Effective program development requires: training nationals, providing supplies and creating systems for sustainability. 2. International and country-specific partnerships are necessary to address any health issue in the developing world. 3. A national clubfoot program offers a unique opportunity to create system-wide change in national health programs.