Validation of the Service Obstacles Scale for the traumatic brain injury population

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Kolakowsky-Hayner, Stephanie A.^{; *} | Kreutzer, Jeffrey S. | Miner, K. Dawn

Affiliations: Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA

Correspondence: [*] Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Box 980542, Richmond, VA 23298-0542, USA. Tel.: +1 804 828 3703; Fax: +1 804 828 2378; E-mail: sakolako@hsc.vcu.edu

Abstract: Traumatic brain injury is a leading cause of death and disability in the United States. Limited access to specialized medical and rehabilitation services has been linked to poor outcomes. Literature provides little guidance for assessment of service obstacles and satisfaction with community resources. The present investigation describes the development of a specialized scale to evaluate caregivers’ perceptions of brain injury services in the community. Results indicate good internal consistency and criterion-related validity of the Service Obstacles Scale. Lack of money for services and lack of adequate community resources were the greatest concerns voiced by respondents, while lack of transportation was the least problematic. Comparisons are made with regard to family needs and respondents’ post-injury life quality. Implications for future research are discussed.

Keywords: service obstacles, traumatic brain injury, family needs, life quality

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2000-14304

Journal: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 14, no. 3, pp. 151-158, 2000