Unmet need for therapy and equipment in Australia
Reference: AIHW. (2006). Therapy and equipment needs of people with cerebral palsy and like disabilities in Australia. Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
This report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare was undertaken in conjunction with Cerebral Palsy Australia. The report summarises the literature about whether therapy 'makes a difference', investigates the nature and extent of met, partially met and unmet need for therapies and equipment, and estimates the effects of provision in terms of functioning, participation, and reduced social costs.
Findings about therapy and equipment provision:
'there is as yet little in the way of published studies on the effects of therapy and equipment provision' (page 179) however focus group data described strong links between therapy and improved function, and the benefits of equipment provision.
Findings about unmet need:
'Unmet need appears to be high… Long waiting times for therapy and equipment are a major concern, particularly in the light of focus group evidence that lack of timely access to appropriate therapy and equipment can exacerbate problems and result in greater future need for services' (page 184).