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Enhancing Equity in Clinical Practice Guidelines for Traumatic Brain Injury and the Criminal Justice System

Enhancing Equity in Clinical Practice Guidelines for Traumatic Brain Injury and the Criminal Justice System

Enhancing Equity in Clinical Practice Guidelines for Traumatic Brain Injury and the Criminal Justice System

The intersection of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the criminal justice system (CJS) presents unique challenges that require specialized attention in clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). Recent research highlights a critical gap in these guidelines: the lack of equity considerations for disadvantaged groups, including those involved with the CJS. This blog explores how practitioners can enhance their skills by integrating the outcomes of this research into their practice or by delving further into this area.

The Importance of Equity in Clinical Practice Guidelines

Clinical practice guidelines are designed to optimize patient care through evidence-based recommendations. However, they often adopt a one-size-fits-all approach that overlooks the needs of disadvantaged populations. The systematic review titled "Equity considerations in clinical practice guidelines for traumatic brain injury and the criminal justice system" reveals that many CPGs fail to address the specific needs of individuals with TBI who intersect with the CJS.

Key Findings from the Research

Actionable Steps for Practitioners

1. Advocate for Comprehensive Screening: Practitioners should advocate for comprehensive TBI screening across all facets of the CJS. This includes developing protocols that consider legal implications and ensuring that screenings are culturally sensitive and accessible.

2. Incorporate Equity Assessment Tools: Utilize equity assessment tools during guideline development to ensure that recommendations are inclusive and address the social determinants of health affecting disadvantaged groups.

3. Engage with Disadvantaged Communities: Involve representatives from disadvantaged communities in the development process of CPGs to ensure their needs are adequately represented and addressed.

The Path Forward: Encouraging Further Research

The findings from this review underscore the need for further research into how TBI intersects with various facets of the CJS. By conducting studies that focus on these intersections, we can build a robust evidence base to inform more equitable CPGs. Practitioners are encouraged to engage with ongoing research efforts and contribute their insights to improve healthcare outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Equity considerations in clinical practice guidelines for traumatic brain injury and the criminal justice system: A systematic review


Citation: Zoe Colclough et al., (2024). Equity considerations in clinical practice guidelines for traumatic brain injury and the criminal justice system: A systematic review. PLoS Medicine, 21(3), e1004418.
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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