When innovation allows for continued employment: the example of an exoskeleton at the Dracénie Hospital Center

Testimonial

When innovation enables job retention: the example of an exoskeleton at the Dracénie Hospital Center

Testimonial

When innovation enables job retention: the example of an exoskeleton at the Dracénie Hospital Center

A work accident, a severe diagnosis, an unavoidably seeming unfitness... and yet, the story didn't end there. Thanks to the acquisition of an exoskeleton Hapo UP, the Dracénie Hospital Center enabled one of its employees, recognized as a disabled worker, to resume his full-time job as a nursing assistant.

This project, both human and innovative, was carried out by our Ergosanté PACA agency. It illustrates three essential points: job retention, the possibility of benefiting from funding for this type of equipment, and the positive impact within the teams.

The exoskeleton, a concrete tool for job retention

Hospital worker from behind, equipped with the exoskeleton Hapo UP

Pierre-Alexandre, a nursing assistant for over 12 years, had suffered a severe shoulder injury that prevented him from continuing his job. After surgery and rehabilitation, the chronic pain seemed to jeopardize his professional future.

“Thanks to my exoskeleton, I have less chronic pain, I have regained range of motion, and I was able to resume my full-time work as a nursing assistant. For me, it's like before.”

— Pierre-Alexandre, nursing assistant
See Pierre-Alexandre's full testimony.

The exoskeleton Hapo UP acts as muscular support, assists movements, and relieves joints. A technological solution that offers much more than comfort: a return to a passionate profession, preventing unfitness and reassignment.

Funding available for this type of project

The acquisition of the exoskeleton was made possible thanks to the support of institutional partners such as the ARS (Regional Health Agency) and the FIPHFP (Fund for the Integration of Disabled People in the Public Service).

The project was also awarded during the 20th anniversary of the FIPHFP with a trophy in the Employment Retention category.

This shows that there are grants and support mechanisms to help employers invest in innovative solutions, in the service of inclusion and adaptation of workstations.

A project that garners team support

This enthusiasm proves that this type of project can become a collective lever: it promotes awareness, acceptance of disability at work, and a positive dynamic around inclusion.

“This project has generated a lot of enthusiasm. Several agents spontaneously contacted me saying, 'I would also like to have an exoskeleton.' This has allowed for open discussions about disabilities, sometimes invisible, and encouraged other employees to start a recognition process.”

— Laetitia, disability advisor at the Hospital Center
Watch Laetitia's interview.

Beyond the individual case, the initiative had a ripple effect within the institution.

hospital worker carrying a plastic box

The story of Pierre-Alexandre demonstrates that with a common will and innovative solutions, it is possible to transform a declared inability into professional success.

The Hapo UP exoskeleton is not just a technological feat: it is a tool that can restore confidence, autonomy, and prospects to employees with disabilities.

A beautiful illustration that maintaining employment is always possible, as long as innovation, support, and human commitment are combined.

Contact one of our experts

Our teams are at your disposal to assess your needs and organize real-life tests to allow your employees to experience the benefits of exoskeletons in their work environment.

Contact an expert

Contact one of our experts

Our teams are at your disposal to assess your needs and organize real-life tests to allow your employees to experience the benefits of exoskeletons in their work environment.

Contact an expert