Rehabilitation needs of patients attending social work day centres for physical disability

The requirement for medical and paramedical services in 364 physically disabled adults attending social work day centres within the Lothian Region was assessed by one of a team of physicians experienced in rehabilitation medicine. Deficiencies in the provision of services were noted, particularly in relation to specialist neurological and orthopaedic needs as well as in physiotherapy, clinical psychology and some nursing requirements. Occupational therapy was generally well provided, although much of this was diversional in nature. Social work day centres could be an important focus for continuing community-based rehabilitation, but in order for them to function in this way greater input from medical and paramedical services is required. This clearly has financial implications for local authority and health service planning of services for disabled people.