Evaluation of a pilot program for rheumatic disability in an urban community.
A program for the systematic detection and management of arthritis disability was developed for an urban population. A survey identified 601 persons with rheumatic disability in a population of 9,500-10,550. Seventy-eight persons were evaluated and given recommendations. An ombudsman assisted the clients in obtaining health services and coordinated care. An evaluation 6-8 months later showed increased utilization of and referrals to relevant services but, on the whole, little improvement in functional capacity was noted. However, the small numbers do not definite conclusions.
D001168:Arthritis / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005260:Female; D049668:History, 15th Century; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012216:Rheumatic Diseases / Q000534:rehabilitation; D014505:Urban Population