Research, consumer involvement, and models of care

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Research
• Neuroscience
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) faces challenges in promoting Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) rehabilitation research.
• Individuals with TBI, families, and caregivers encounter complex difficulties.
• Federal legislation enacted in 1993 emphasizes accountability for public programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of TBI Model Systems of Care.
• To assess advances in TBI research, consumer involvement, and care delivery.
• To examine the TBI Model Systems of Care against new measures of program success.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of TBI rehabilitation research initiatives.
• Review of consumer involvement in TBI care.
• Evaluation of TBI Model Systems of Care attributes.
• Assessment against results-oriented program success measures.

Main Results:

• Significant advances have been made in TBI research and consumer involvement.
• The TBI Model Systems of Care exhibit characteristics of effective, results-oriented programs.
• Despite challenges, there is optimism regarding TBI rehabilitation and care.

Conclusions:

• The TBI Model Systems of Care align with principles of effective, results-oriented public programs.
• Continued progress in research and care delivery offers hope for individuals with TBI.
• The system demonstrates adaptability and success in the context of evolving accountability measures.