Bridging the gap: transitional rehabilitation services for people with spinal cord injury

Abstract

Purpose: To review the current international rehabilitation and healthcare climate and describe a new model of service delivery aimed at enhancing the continuity of care for people with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Method: An extensive literature review was undertaken and a new model of service delivery conceptualized and implemented in the Australian context of SCI rehabilitation.

Results: This new model of service delivery aims to improve the rehabilitation continuum for people with SCI by reducing the time spent in hospital, increasing consumer control over the rehabilitation environment and enhancing community re-integration. The new model recognizes the changing nature of the healthcare system, the legislative frameworks within which rehabilitation services are provided and the increasing role of the consumer.

Conclusions: Models of rehabilitation that address the need for shorter periods of hospitalization and attempt to improve client outcomes are integral to ensure sustainable rehabilitation services in the future.