Open Bionics

Open Bionics is the British 3D-printed prosthetics firm discussed in 3D printing was supposed to disrupt prosthetic costs. It hasn’t.. Britt Young says she considered getting a 3D-printed arm from the company as it expanded in the United States, but her insurance would not approve it.

In the source, Open Bionics functions as an availability case rather than a proof that 3D printing has solved affordability. The firm shows that new materials and production routes can put more prosthetic options in the market, while Prosthetic Insurance Coverage and clinical access still determine whether a user can actually get one.

Connections

• Britt Young - potential user whose insurance denial illustrates the access barrier.
• 3D-Printed Prosthetics - product and manufacturing category.
• Prosthetic Insurance Coverage and Assistive Device Classification - payment and policy constraints affecting access.