Improving Skills in Online Therapy: Insights from Brain Injury Research
Recent research highlights the neglect of persons with severe brain injury in the United States, emphasizing the need for improved clinical care, legal frameworks, and policy interventions. As online therapy practitioners, it is crucial to understand these insights to enhance our services and advocate for better care.
Key Findings from the Research
The study, The Neglect of Persons with Severe Brain Injury in the United States, identifies several critical areas where improvements are necessary:
- Misdiagnosis: Over 40% of persons in a minimally conscious state (MCS) are misdiagnosed as being in a vegetative state, leading to inadequate care.
- Lack of Access to Rehabilitation: Many patients do not receive the necessary rehabilitation and assistive technologies to improve their quality of life.
- Human Rights Violations: The rights to life, health, education, and community are often overlooked for persons with severe brain injury.
Implementing Research Outcomes
As practitioners, there are several ways to incorporate these findings into our online therapy practices:
- Enhanced Training: Stay updated on the latest diagnostic tools and rehabilitation techniques for severe brain injuries. This includes understanding the use of the coma recovery scale-revised and being aware of the benefits of medications like amantadine.
- Advocacy for Policy Change: Advocate for policies that ensure better access to rehabilitation and assistive technologies. This includes pushing for health insurance coverage for necessary treatments.
- Focus on Human Rights: Ensure that therapy practices respect and promote the fundamental human rights of patients, including their rights to life, health, and community integration.
Encouraging Further Research
While the current research provides valuable insights, ongoing research is essential to continue improving care for persons with severe brain injury. Practitioners should engage in or support research initiatives that explore new rehabilitation techniques, diagnostic tools, and policy impacts.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The Neglect of Persons with Severe Brain Injury in the United States.
