Barriers and satisfaction associated with personal assistance services: Results of consumer and personal assistant focus groups.

Model System:

SCI

Reference Type:

JA

Accession No.:

J49329.

Journal:

Occupation, Participation and Health (OTJR) (formerly The Occupational Therapy Journal of Research)

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2005 , 25, 2, 66-74

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Data transcribed from 5 focus groups describe the barriers and satisfaction expressed by consumers with spinal cord injuries and personal assistants related to the provision of personal assistance services. Results indicated that both groups experienced problems with the consumer-personal assistant relationship, inadequate reimbursement, and restrictive policies. Consumers also reported challenges in finding reliable personal assistants, and personal assistants reported job burnout. Both groups experienced satisfaction when a positive working relationship existed.

Author(s):

Matsuda, Sandra J., Clark, Mary J., Schopp, Laura H., Hagglund, Kristofer J., Mokelke, Emily K.

Participating Centers: