Vocational rehabilitation service patterns and employment outcomes for Hispanics with spinal cord injuries

Authors: Arango-Lasprilla, J. C., da Silva Cardoso, Wilson, L. M., Romero, M. G., Chan, F., & Sung, C.
Year Published 2012
Publication Rehabilitation Research Policy and Education
Volume 25
Number 3
Pages 149-162
Publisher Elliott and Fitzpatrick Inc.
Background

Employment impacts the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injury. Most studies that look at vocational service patterns for individuals with spinal cord injury focus on European Americans. Ethnic minority groups within the United State are growing. These changes also impact referrals to Model Spinal Cord Injury Systems. This presents new challenges to rehabilitation professionals.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to identify demographic and service related patterns for Hispanics with spinal cord injury receiving services from state vocational rehabilitation agencies and examine similarities and differences in vocational rehabilitation services and employment outcomes between a group of European Americans and Hispanics with spinal cord injury.

Setting

This study included individuals with SCI served by multiple vocational rehabilitation agencies in various settings.

Sample

Data for this study came from the Rehabilitation Services Administration Case Service report (RSA-911) database. There were 4,392 spinal cord cases closed either rehabilitated or not in 2005. Among these 3,119 were European American and 395 Hispanics. There were significant differences in age, education, per-service employment status, employment status, significant disabilities and work disincentives between the two groups.

Data Collection

Logistical regression analysis were conducted.

Control

There was no control or comparison condition.

Findings

Minor differences in case dollar expenditures and service patterns were noted between the two groups. Vocational rehabilitation services that impacted successful work outcomes included: assistive technology services, basic support services and job placement services.

Conclusions

Hispanic status of vocational rehabilitation clients does not affect employment outcomes. Hispanics appear to have more risk factors than European American clients. Vocational rehabilitation counselors were able to support the needs of Hispanic clients.

URL http://www.academia.edu/10786564/Vocational_Rehabilitation_Service_Patterns_and_Employment_Outcomes_for_Hispanics_with_Spinal_Cord_Injuries
Disabilities Orthopedic impairments
Populations Male & Female | Hispanic or Latino
Outcomes
NIDILRR Funded Yes
Research Design Observational
Peer Reviewed Yes