Outcomes of Implementing a Webinar-Based Strategy to Improve Spinal Cord Injury Knowledge and Community Building: Convergent Mixed Methods Study

JMIR Rehabil Assist Technol, 2023 · DOI: 10.2196/46575 · Published: June 23, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Telehealth & Digital Health Public Health

Simple Explanation

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted services for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). To address this, a webinar series was created to improve access to self-management information. This study aimed to understand the outcomes of implementing the webinar series, focusing on its reach, impact on social connectedness and perceptions of disability, and long-term sustainability. The webinar series improved participant knowledge of what is possible after an SCI and positively influenced their perceptions of disability, demonstrating the potential for long-term implementation.

Study Duration

6 Months

Participants

234 individuals with SCI, their families, service providers, and the public

Evidence Level

Mixed Methods Study

Key Findings

1
The webinar series reached mainly persons with SCI and health professionals, primarily in urban areas, with sexuality and research topics being the most viewed on YouTube.
2
The knowledge shared during the webinars was considered valid and useful because it included both lived experiences and clinical expertise.
3
The webinar series strengthened existing community connections among people with SCI and positively influenced perceptions of normality and disability.

Research Summary

This study evaluated a webinar series (AB-SCILS) designed to improve spinal cord injury (SCI) knowledge and community building during the COVID-19 pandemic, using a mixed-methods approach. Key findings indicated that the webinars reached individuals with SCI and health professionals, improved knowledge and perceptions of disability, and strengthened existing SCI communities. The webinar format was highly usable and accessible, suggesting feasibility for long-term implementation, though considerations for reaching rural areas and diverse individuals are needed.

Practical Implications

Improved Knowledge Dissemination

Webinars are an effective tool for disseminating knowledge and sharing resources with individuals affected by SCI.

Community Building Strategies

Webinars can strengthen existing SCI communities, but strategies should be implemented to foster inclusivity and engagement with broader audiences.

Policy and Practice

Telehealth strategies like webinars are feasible and should be supported for long-term implementation, with attention to accessibility and inclusivity.

Study Limitations

1
Lack of validation of the challenging normality survey
2
Low response rate to the survey
3
Limited representation of health care providers and male participants with SCI

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