Rates of Access to Assistive Equipment and Medical Rehabilitation Services Among People With Disabilities
By Bingham, S. C.; Beatty, P. W.; Disability and Rehabilitation, Vol. 25, No. 9, pp. 487-490Publication Date: 2003
Study conducted to determine rates of access to assistive technology (AT) and medical rehabilitation services among people with disabilities in the United States, and to determine whether health plan type is associated with access rates. A total of 500 working-age adults participated in the study, and were evaluated for need for and receipt of AT and medical equipment over a 12-month period as well as rehabilitation services received during a 3-month period. More than half of the participants indicated a need for AT during the 12-month period, while a third of these participants did not receive any such devices. A total of 40 percent of the participants indicated a need for rehabilitation services during the 3-month period, though half of these participants did not receive these services. Access rates did not significantly differ across health plan types. The authors conclude that emphasis in healthcare for people with disabilities should shift from acute healthcare models that place focus on function restoration to preventative services as well as the maintenance of function, health, and independence.
Published by: Taylor & Francis, Limited (Website:http://taylorandfrancis.org)
International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (Web Site: http://www.isprm.org )
