Article

Community-based rehabilitation (CBR) developed in response to delivery
of rehabilitation services to people with disability in developing countries, and
appears appropriate to address rehabilitation needs of rural and remote
populations, including Australian Aboriginal People with acquired brain injury
(ABI). This article will describe participatory action research (PAR) as a
vehicle for exploring and translating the CBR model within a mainstream brain
injury rehabilitation service in Queensland, Australia. METHOD: PAR was conducted
with two self-selected remote Aboriginal communities in Far North Queensland. Key
components to this project were the employment of a local Aboriginal worker,
facilitating community engagement and consultation. PAR elements of planning,
action and review were conducted through individual and group meetings and
activities within the communities across a 3-year period. RESULTS: The project
has facilitated expansion and change within the current brain injury
rehabilitation service model in line with CBR philosophical foundations,
including community development and partnership as a desirable way of engaging
with key stakeholders. CONCLUSIONS: The focus on community consultation through
PAR and the development of community partnerships has increased the cultural
competency of the rehabilitation service, the capacity of participating
communities and of the sector to respond in ways that are valued and owned by
Aboriginal People with brain injury, their families and communities.

Langue : ANGLAIS