Preventive care in spinal cord injuries and disorders: examples of research and implementation

Individuals with disabilities are less likely to receive preventive care services than those in the general population. Prevention is very important in persons with spinal cord injuries and disorders for both common conditions such as respiratory infections and for conditions common in spinal cord disorders such as neurogenic bowel, because these individuals are at increased risk for negative outcomes. Clinical practice guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for patient care. However, dissemination of guidelines is not sufficient to increase use of recommended care. Implementation research has identified strategies to increase use of evidence-based care and subsequently improve patient outcomes.