Implications of the World Report on Disability for responding to communication disorders in Brazil

Abstract

The World Report on Disability has resulted in major shifts in healthcare policy in different national scenarios. The current paper seeks to elucidate some of the changes regarding communication sciences and disorders with the ultimate goal of improved service delivery for persons with communication disabilities in Brazil. The inherent national diversity presents major challenges to both planning and service delivery. The task of identifying under-served populations and the specific barriers to access to services and resources is not straightforward, particularly given that 200 million people reside in an area of over 8.5 million km(2). To address this need, changes have already been implemented, namely increased participation of professional and scientific associations related to communication sciences and disorders. Wylie, McAllister, Davidson, and Marshall (2013) offered a provocative analysis in their recent paper and their positions are further discussed within the current document. The bio-psycho-social model of disability should be the foundation for both public agencies and the academy to enhance this area of concern in research, professional training, and service delivery. The real challenge seems to be providing services with the appropriate level of complexity and specialization required for each unique scenario.