A Narrative Review of Vocational Rehabilitation in People with Spinal Cord Injury in Different Countries

Medical Journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2024 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.47176/mjiri.38.76 · Published: July 3, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Occupational Health Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This review explores vocational rehabilitation (VR) for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). VR aims to help people with disabilities return to work. Employment is crucial as it provides purpose, financial stability, and enhances self-esteem. The review highlights various factors affecting return to work (RTW) for SCI patients, including physical and psychological barriers. Understanding these factors is essential for developing effective VR programs. Currently, Iran lacks specific VR programs for SCI patients. This review emphasizes the need for tailored VR models that consider the unique challenges faced by this population in Iran.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

124 studies

Evidence Level

Narrative Review

Key Findings

1
Employment rates among people with SCI are significantly lower than the general population.
2
Supported employment programs, particularly Individual Placement and Support (IPS), are more effective than conventional treatments in improving employment outcomes for people with SCI.
3
Early access to VR is beneficial, increasing the probability of participation in work and boosting hope among participants.

Research Summary

This narrative review examined vocational rehabilitation (VR) for people with spinal cord injury (SCI) across different countries, focusing on factors influencing return to work (RTW). The review identified key barriers and facilitators to employment, the effectiveness of supported employment models, and the importance of early access to VR services. The findings highlight a gap in VR services for people with SCI in Iran, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions to improve employment outcomes in this population.

Practical Implications

Develop Targeted VR Programs

Create specialized vocational rehabilitation programs tailored to the unique needs of individuals with SCI, addressing both physical and psychological barriers to employment.

Promote Early Intervention

Implement early access to VR services following SCI to improve the likelihood of return to work and enhance participant motivation.

Adapt International Models for Iran

Design a new model of employment or VR for the SCI population in Iran, considering contextual differences in public transportation, social services, and employment opportunities.

Study Limitations

1
The search terms did not capture publications written in languages other than English or Persian.
2
Studies not indexed in the examined databases were not included.
3
The heterogeneity of the methods made it difficult to assess the quality of studies.

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