Evaluating the Community-Based Rehabilitation Services for People with Disabilities for Inclusive Development,Ethiopia

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the types of rehabilitation services that the community-based rehabilitation (CBR) program provided for people with disabilities (PWDs) regarding inclusive development in relation to the World Health Organization guidelines. The study was conducted at the University of Gondar CBR program. A mixed research method was employed. As a result, 222 PWDs were selected to collect quantitative data from a total population of 795. Additionally, 26 PWDs, five parents, and 12 CBR stakeholders participated in interviews and focus group discussions. The results of the study indicated that PWDs received various services from the CBR program, considering the components and subcomponents of the CBR matrix to differing extents. Many services provided by the program for PWDs included health services, livelihood support, education, social services, and, to a lesser extent, empowerment. It was concluded that the CBR matrix's health component was the program's primary service, while the social and empowering components were less prominent. Therefore, the findings regarding the types of CBR services offered by the program carry theoretical and policy implications. Policymakers need to advocate for additional funding, better resource allocation, and more focused programs to address these disparities.