Affordable, Tailored Therapy for Financially Vulnerable People With Trauma-related Injuries

Multiple Trauma/Injuries, Rehabilitation, Trauma (Including Fractures)

Needs, financial vulnerability, Socioeconomic disadvantage, physical therapy, physiotherapy, grounded theory, qualitative research, Rehabilitation

Financially vulnerable people experience higher rates of trauma-related injuries and often face barriers to accessing physical therapy services. Current rehabilitation services may not sufficiently align with the circumstances and needs of this population. This qualitative study aims to develop a conceptual understanding of the needs of financially vulnerable adults with trauma-related injuries regarding physical therapy treatment. Using a constructivist grounded theory approach, data will be collected through semi-structured interviews, participant observations, and supplementary qualitative materials. Findings will support the development of more accessible, tailored, and person-centered physical therapy services.

Trauma-related injuries can have substantial long-term consequences for functioning, participation, and quality of life. Financial vulnerability is associated with both an increased risk of traumatic injury and poorer recovery outcomes. Financially vulnerable patients may experience barriers in accessing physical therapy, obtaining assistive devices, arranging transportation, or prioritizing rehabilitation alongside competing financial demands. Despite the recognized importance of physical therapy in trauma rehabilitation, little is known about the specific needs of financially vulnerable individuals. This study aims to develop a conceptual understanding of these needs using constructivist grounded theory methodology. Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews, participant observations, and supplementary qualitative sources such as documents, photographs, videos, and social media content provided voluntarily by participants. Participants will be adults with trauma-related injuries and self-reported financial concerns living in the Netherlands. Recruitment will follow purposive, snowball, and theoretical sampling principles. Data collection and analysis will proceed iteratively until theoretical saturation is achieved. Findings are expected to contribute to more accessible and tailored physical therapy services for financially vulnerable trauma survivors.

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