Vocational Rehabilitation Awareness Among Spinal Cord Injury Male Patients in Saudi Arabia: A Brief Communication

Cureus, 2019 · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.3886 · Published: January 15, 2019

Simple Explanation

This study explores the awareness of vocational rehabilitation among male spinal cord injury (SCI) patients in Saudi Arabia. Motor vehicle accidents are a common cause of SCI in Saudi Arabia, often affecting young adults. The study highlights the importance of employment after SCI due to its psychological, social, financial, and political implications. The research was conducted through structured interviews at a major rehabilitation hospital. It aimed to understand how many SCI patients are aware of and have access to vocational rehabilitation services, which help individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment. The findings indicate a significant lack of awareness regarding vocational rehabilitation among SCI patients in Saudi Arabia. This lack of awareness can lead to unemployment and a reduced quality of life, increasing the economic burden on both the individual and society.

Study Duration

5 Months

Participants

121 male patients with SCI

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional study

Key Findings

1
The study found that 77.7% of the SCI patients had no idea about vocational rehabilitation.
2
Only 4.1% of the patients reported receiving services of vocational rehabilitation.
3
There was a significant drop in employment rates after the spinal cord injury, from 57.9% employed before injury to only 16.5% employed after injury.

Research Summary

This cross-sectional study assessed vocational rehabilitation awareness among 121 male SCI patients in Saudi Arabia, revealing a significant lack of awareness and utilization of such services. The study highlights a considerable decrease in employment rates post-SCI and emphasizes the necessity to address this issue to enhance the quality of life and reduce the economic burden associated with SCI. The authors recommend future multi-center studies including both genders to gain a more comprehensive understanding of vocational rehabilitation awareness and needs in the SCI population in Saudi Arabia.

Practical Implications

Improve Vocational Rehabilitation Awareness

Implement awareness programs to educate SCI patients about vocational rehabilitation services available in Saudi Arabia.

Increase Access to Vocational Rehabilitation

Expand vocational rehabilitation service offerings to provide more SCI patients with the support needed to return to work or pursue other meaningful activities.

Reduce Economic Burden

By increasing awareness and access to vocational rehabilitation, unemployment rates among SCI patients can be reduced, leading to lower economic burden and improved quality of life.

Study Limitations

1
This brief communication article is limited to one center
2
Conducted only in male patients
3
The study recommends having a multicenter study that would include both genders

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