UK rehabilitation professionals' experiences undertaking short-term responses after sudden-onset disaster

Abstract

Background/Aims Rehabilitation professionals can be members of international emergency responding medical teams after a natural disaster or following conflict. There is little research that explores the experiences of rehabilitation professionals who participate in these short-term emergency responses. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of rehabilitation professionals, specifically those of occupational therapists and physiotherapists. Objectives included examining personal and professional development opportunities, and how these experiences might inform future responses and the rehabilitation professional role. Methods A phenomenological approach was undertaken. Eight semi-structured interviews were carried out with rehabilitation professionals who had worked as part of short-term response following conflict or sudden-onset disaster. Transcriptions were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Two main themes and subsequent subthemes emerged. Theme 1 was challenges, with subthemes: an emotional journey; have I made a difference; and cultural and contextual awareness. Theme 2 was opportunities, with subthemes: a short-term response; working together; and developing skills and knowledge. Conclusions The experiences of UK-based rehabilitation professionals on short-term rotational responses as part of an emergency specialised rehabilitation team were overall positive. Challenges have implications for developing future pre- and post-response training and support. Further research is recommended to determine the contribution of these responses and to continue to develop understanding of the rehabilitation professional role in a responding specialised rehabilitation team.