Developing and implementing a model of care for athletes living with disabilities: A protocol

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Disability Studies
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Athletes living with disabilities (ALWDs) encounter substantial obstacles, including stigma, discrimination, inadequate service access, and funding shortages.
• Despite global initiatives like the UN's 'Leave No One Behind' agenda, ALWDs remain marginalized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the specific challenges and needs of ALWDs.
• To develop and implement a comprehensive model of care (MoC) tailored for ALWDs, using South Africa as a case study.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-method design incorporating a process redesign framework.
• Phased approach: problem/needs analysis, literature review of care strategies, Delphi study for MoC development, and MoC implementation.
• Inclusion of ALWDs in Phase 1 and disability sports experts in Phases 3 and 4.

Main Results:

• The study will identify and articulate the multifaceted challenges faced by ALWDs.
• A novel model of care (MoC) will be proposed to address these identified needs.

Conclusions:

• There is an urgent need to re-evaluate and enhance service provision for ALWDs.
• Collaborative efforts are essential to improve the quality of life and services for these athletes.