Community-based rehabilitation/community based inclusive development functioning during the COVID-19 pandemic: A...

The coronavirus (COVID-19) became a global pandemic in March 2020 and impacted nations worldwide not only because of the disease but also because the containment measures-imposed created ripple effects for the populations in each country. The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected vulnerable groups, such as persons with disabilities. This study aimed to understand the impact of COVID-19 on the function of Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR)/Community-Based Inclusive Development (CBID) across nations and for their target communities-persons with disabilities. The current article also described some measures CBR/CBID programs took in light of service closure to facilitate access to needed services for persons with disabilities.

We conducted a secondary analysis of qualitative data to understand the impact of COVID-19 on the functioning of CBR/CBID programs and their target communities. The original qualitative data were collected through online dialogues among CBR/CBID partners across five regions of the world, facilitated for understanding of their practices on five other topics.

COVID-19 significantly impacted the function of CBR/CBID programs across the world. Many services were halted due to public health measures, such as maintaining social distancing or lockdowns. The COVID-19 pandemic also had a negative impact on access to health, education and livelihood support for persons with disabilities. Additionally, many people with disabilities did not have access to COVID-19 related information and services like vaccines. However, we found that technology played a significant role in revitalizing CBR/CBID programs during COVID-19. CBR/CBID service providers across five regions used online platforms to disseminate information about COVID-19. Professionals also used technology to provide rehabilitation and educational services to people with disabilities through online platforms.

Our findings suggest that technology can play a vital role in continuing many services (e.g., CBR/CBID) that cannot be offered in person during crises like COVID-19. However, it is important to remember that technology may not be accessible to many individuals with disabilities, specifically those who reside in rural areas and who experience adverse situations like financial constraints. Additionally, many persons with disabilities may not have the necessary knowledge and skills to use technology. CBR personnel must consider that before adopting technology to provide services under CBR programs.