Canadian healthcare perspective in traumatic brain injury rehabilitation

Abstract

Brain injury rehabilitation is based on principles of universal access to healthcare in a publicly funded system and is available to all residents in Canada. However, a variability of resources exists because of the vastness of the country and differences in provincial funding. Rehabilitation is typically provided by an interprofessional team and is client centered, goal directed, evidence based, and aimed at improving quality of life for survivors of brain injury. Work is being done exploring different models of care including community treatment and the use of rehabilitation therapists. Patient education is an ongoing priority. Data collection is considered mandatory in many centers for program evaluation and quality improvement. There is a clear need for coordinated standards of care across the country.