Implementing Activity-Based Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation in Canada: Challenges and Proposed Solutions

Healthcare, 2024 · DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12070703 · Published: March 22, 2024

Healthcare Neurorehabilitation Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Activity-based therapy (ABT) shows promise in helping people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) recover and avoid secondary health issues. This research looks at the hurdles and possible solutions for making ABT more available throughout the Canadian healthcare system. The study reviewed existing research and found that while ABT is seen as beneficial, its implementation faces challenges at individual, environmental, and organizational levels. These challenges range from patient readiness and therapist training to funding and access to equipment. To improve ABT implementation, the study suggests focusing on strategies that boost motivation, provide better education and training, and address systemic barriers. By tackling these issues, it may be possible to make ABT more accessible and effective for Canadians with SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

131 participants from eight key interest groups

Evidence Level

Level: Qualitative thematic synthesis

Key Findings

1
Factors influencing acceptance and adaptation of ABT across healthcare settings in Canada, including identity, knowledge, and health system-related issues, were identified.
2
Proposed solutions include motivation, empowerment, advocacy for ABT, and the desire for enhanced education and training opportunities for healthcare providers and individuals with SCI.
3
Behavioural Change Wheel (BCW) analysis indicated that interventions should target reflective motivation, social opportunity, and physical opportunity to address ABT implementation challenges.

Research Summary

This study examines the current state of Activity-Based Therapy (ABT) in Canadian healthcare settings for individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), focusing on barriers and facilitators to its implementation. A qualitative thematic synthesis of nine articles revealed two main themes: factors influencing ABT acceptance and adaptation across healthcare settings, and proposed solutions to enhance ABT delivery. The application of the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) identified that interventions should target reflective motivation, social opportunity, and physical opportunity to overcome challenges in ABT implementation across the Canadian healthcare system.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Education and Training

Tailored ABT education programs for healthcare providers in various settings, focusing on practical application and addressing knowledge gaps.

Policy and Funding Advocacy

Advocate for policy changes and increased funding to support ABT implementation, addressing cost barriers and promoting accessibility.

Collaboration and Continuity of Care

Foster collaboration and communication across the continuum of care to ensure seamless transitions and sustained engagement with ABT.

Study Limitations

1
The review did not include the viewpoints of families or caregivers.
2
The results were inclined towards the perspectives of some groups (e.g., clinicians, occupational therapists, physical therapists, individuals living with SCI) over others (e.g., clinic directors, administrators, advocates, policy makers).
3
Future studies should investigate the perspectives of other key interest groups about ABT for SCI rehabilitation across the healthcare continuum in Canada.

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