Experiences and perceptions about community-based rehabilitation in the Metropolitan Region of Chile: Qualitative study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Community-based rehabilitation (CBR) seeks to improve access to rehabilitation and social inclusion of people
with disabilities. Few studies show heterogeneous experiences in its implementation. The objective of this study was to describe the experiences and perceptions about CBR of health professionals, people with disabilities and family members participating in primary care centers in the Metropolitan Region of Chile. METHODS: An exploratory-descriptive qualitative study was carried out. Through a typical case sample, health professionals, men and women with physical disabilities and family members were selected. A total of 16 semi-structured group interviews were developed, 4 for each group. Semantic content analysis was performed using inductive and deductive coding. RESULTS: CBR is valued positively by people with disabilities and their families. However, professionals consider that it is insufficient to achieve social inclusion. DISCUSSION: 
There are barriers and facilitators to the implementation of CBR. Its location in Primary Care allows flexibility in care. However,  it focuses on physical rehabilitation interventions, relegating comprehensive health and intersectoral work. Training of health  teams is required to provide comprehensive rehabilitation that contributes to the social inclusion of people with disabilities.