Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of a course series for the rehabilitation of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) on participants’ perceptions of interprofessional collaboration and teamwork.
Problem
In Pakistan, the prevalence of SCI has surged, highlighting the need for coordinated rehabilitation services. However, individuals with SCI in Pakistan often receive little to no rehabilitation after their injury, which negatively impacts their recovery outcomes. Furthermore, the understanding of collaborative education and practice appears to be limited within health organizations in Pakistan.
Significance
This study highlights the effectiveness of an interdisciplinary education program in improving the perceptions of interprofessional patient care underscoring the value of combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience to foster a collaborative approach to SCI rehabilitation.
Implications
Participants underscored the value of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model in facilitating systematic documentation and comprehensive care planning despite variability in assessment practices. The training fostered a deeper understanding of the team-based approach essential for effective SCI rehabilitation.
Solution
A three-month interdisciplinary clinical skills training program was developed to address existing gaps in knowledge and practice among rehabilitation professionals. The program included 18 online courses, four mentoring sessions, and three days of in-person training, focusing on integrating multidisciplinary care. Six months following the training, participants maintained positive perceptions of collaborative patient care. These findings emphasize the effectiveness of combining interdisciplinary theoretical knowledge with practical application while focusing on multidisciplinary care and interprofessional teamwork in improving perceptions of collaborative patient care.
Recommended Citation
Cunningham, S., Lukin, M., Zehra, N., Lowe, R., & Bachani, A. (2025). Enhancing Interprofessional Collaboration Among Rehabilitation Professionals for Spinal Cord Injury Care in Pakistan. Journal of Interprofessional Practice and Collaboration, 5(2). Retrieved from https://repository.ulm.edu/ojihp/vol5/iss2/7
