Original Research Managers’ perceptions on the implementation of community-based rehabilitation in KwaZulu-Natal

Sithembiso Blose, Verusia Chetty, Saul Cobbing, Nomzamo Chemane

South African Journal of Physiotherapy | Vol 80, No 1 | a1965 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/sajp.v80i1.1965 | © 2024 Sithembiso Blose, Verusia Chetty, Saul Cobbing, Nomzamo Chemane | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 15 August 2023 | Published: 26 January 2024

About the author(s) Sithembiso Blose, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
Verusia Chetty, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
Saul Cobbing, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; and Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
Nomzamo Chemane, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Community-based rehabilitation (CBR) is a World Health Organization (WHO) strategy for social inclusion, equalisation of opportunities and provision of essential services for people with disabilities (PWDs). Community-based rehabilitation is a multi-sectoral strategy that requires all stakeholders to participate equally in its implementation. KwaZulu-Natal has implemented CBR for over two decades, with various stakeholders at the forefront of implementation. However, the status of stakeholder engagement, collaboration and coordination is unknown.

Objective: The objective of our study was to understand how CBR is implemented in KwaZulu-Natal and the roles of each stakeholder in its implementation, with a focus, on managers from government and non-governmental organisations.

Method: A descriptive explorative approach using semi-structured interviews was used to collect data from 20 managers from various stakeholders involved in implementing CBR in KwaZulu-Natal. Data were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: The findings revealed five dominant themes: (1) the understanding of concepts, (2) missed opportunities for implementing CBR, (3) barriers to implementing CBR, (4) benefits to implementing CBR and (5) recommendations for future implementation.

Conclusion: A formal management structure with clear roles and responsibilities was fundamental for implementation. Collaboration, coordination and planning were believed to be the critical roles of managers in the implementation of CBR. Training, awareness and sharing of resources among stakeholders were also identified as important factors in implementing CBR in KwaZulu-Natal.

Clinical implications: Our study will assist managers and clinicians to improve their planning and implementation of CBR.

Keywords

community-based rehabilitation; rehabilitation; disability; stakeholders; CBR managers; collaboration; people with disabilities; CBR workers

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 10: Reduced inequalities

Metrics Total abstract views: 404
Total article views: 213

Crossref Citations

No related citations found.