Barriers to employment in spinal cord injury

Individuals with severe spinal cord injuries can be gainfully employed. As part of a U.S. Department of Education, National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research grant, individuals, minimally one-year post spinal cord injury, were surveyed to determine the ''Perceived Barriers to Employment.'' A vocational rehabilitation professional met with individuals in the privacy of his/her home environment to assess the present status of employment and the attitudes which support the state. Results indicate that the timing of the presentation of information is critical. Although inpatient consultation is vital to stimulate the perception that employment is possible, the grieving period may not allow information to be accurately and relevantly processed. Transportation problems appear to be one of the most significantly noted barriers to employment. Public funding support does not permit individuals with SCI to achieve meaningful financial independence. A creative model needs to be developed which will counteract existing financial disincentives in order to allow/support/encourage employment for those who desire it.