VCU Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Needs Assessment

Needs Assessment of Virginians with Spinal Cord Injury

Investigators:

Michelle A. Meade, Ph.D., Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, VCU Medical College of Virginia Campus

Kirsten Barrett, Ph.D., VCU Survey and Evaluation Research Laboratory

M. Njeri Jackson, Ph.D., VCU African-American Studies Program

Purpose and Significance of Project:

 

 This project identified persons with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) living in Virginia and assessed their needs and those of their significant others.  While the primary focus of the needs assessment was on supports for vocational and other productive activities, questions on housing, health care, abuse, and other topics were also included.  We also examined the needs of African Americans, women, children, and other minorities in a qualitative manner

   Project Objectives and Benefits:

(1)     Updated database of persons with traumatic SCI living in the Commonwealth of Virginia by working with the DRS to update the existing Virginia SCI Registry and adding non-registered individuals identified by other organizations and researchers

(2)     Conducted interviews and focus groups with individuals with SCI and family members to identify specific concerns, needs and strengths of African Americans, other ethnic and racial minorities, women, and children living with traumatic SCI.

(3)     Developed a culturally appropriate needs assessment survey with the assistance of consumers, community organizations and rehabilitation professionals to assess the needs and concerns of Virginians with SCI and their families.

(4)     Conducted a statewide needs assessment survey of all Virginians with SCI and their families through a combination of mail surveys and telephone interviews.

(5)     provided DRS, the Centers for Independent Living (CILs), and other organizations with a report on the characteristics, priorities and need of persons with SCI and their families in Virginia

(6)     Directly assessed the needs of Virginians with SCI and their families across multiple domains.  Data gathered will be used to improve existing programs for persons with traumatic SCI, including information that will make them more efficient, effective, and culturally relevant.  In addition, by focusing on issues related to employment and community re-integration, this work will optimize opportunities for persons with SCI to increase their independence and functioning

Executive Summary (pdf)