ACRM Call To Action
The ACRM Health Policy Networking Group (HPNG) has been charged with using the current and future empirical rehabilitation research evidence to influence public policy. The HPNG is currently working on cataloging research evidence to validate the “value” (defined as cost/outcome) to make a case that if we are moving towards value based reimbursement, then rehabilitation should be used as a poster child for a medical service that saves considerable dollars by promoting functional recovery.
In addition to reviewing the literature, we are soliciting input from the membership at large. If you have conducted or are aware of rehabilitation research that may meet these criteria we are asking that you forward the reference to Gary Ulicny at gary_ulicny@shepherd.org. Even if you are unsure if we can use a study, please forward it anyway and we will assess whether it helps our cause.
For example, a study may not directly provide cost data but demonstrates significant reductions in the amount of assistance subjects need, we may be able to make some cost predictions based on the data. We are especially interested in studies that demonstrate long-term improvements in outcome and/or cost savings.
Please email your references to: gary_ulicny@shepherd.org
SCI-ISIG Women’s Health Task Force Update
Submitted by: Heather B. Taylor, PhD, Chair, Women’s Health Task Force of the SCI-ISIG
The Women’s Health Task Force of the Spinal Cord Injury Interdisciplinary Special Interest Group (SCI-ISIG) seeks to understand gender differences and the physical and psychological health of women following spinal cord injury (SCI). Our task force offers exciting opportunities for ACRM members looking for ways to become involved, get connected, and make a difference in the lives of women with SCI.
The Women’s Health Task Force is promoting two exciting initiatives important for women with SCI
INITIATIVE 1: Systematic Review of Research on Women with Spinal Cord Injury
Dr. Claire Kalpajian is leading a systematic review highlighting the current state of research on women with SCI. This effort has the potential to increase our understanding of the impact of SCI on women, highlight gender differences, identify gaps in current literature, and lead to future research. Dr. Kalpajian is an assistant professor and clinical psychologist with specialized training in rehabilitation psychology and post-graduate training in clinical research. Her research focuses on menopause and health in midlife women with SCI, as well as gender differences in health and well-being after SCI. This initiative is supported by funds from the SCI Model System National Institute of Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR).
INITIATIVE 2: Pelvic Health Initiative for Women with Disabilities: An Interactive Information Online Resource (PHI-Learn)
Dr. Margaret Nosek, with the Center for Research on Women with Disabilities at Baylor College of Medicine and TIRR Memorial Hermann, will develop consumer-oriented information resources on pelvic health for women with SCI, multiple sclerosis, and spina bifida. With the help of a community advisory board and a medical advisory board, the Center will (1) create an interactive web page with practical information about preventive health and access to health care for the pelvic organs, (2) offer four webinars on this topic, and (3) maintain a blog with contributions by consumers and medical professionals with advice and comments about pelvic health for women with spinal cord dysfunction. These resources will undergo continuous development over 12 months in response to questions posed by women with disabilities nationwide. This initiative is funded by the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, Quality of Life Grant.
The Women’s Health Task Force seeks people who are willing to lend their time, expertise, and leadership to help the task force further its mission. If you are interested in participating in one of these initiatives, or would like to become a member of this task force, please contact Heather Taylor at heather.taylor@memorialhermann.org.
