Consumer Program
Our Consumer Program aims to engage people with spinal cord injury in the research process, by improving awareness of SCI research knowledge and value while enhancing opportunities for people with SCI to make evidence-based health decisions.
About the Program
Through the Consumer Program, our goal is to support evidence-based health decisions during a time of high need and difficulty, and to engage people with SCI in the research process by improving awareness of SCI research knowledge and value. Additionally, the program aims to identify activities that could engage consumers, prioritize potential opportunities and collaborate to leverage resources to improve consumer engagement in research activities at the Blusson Spinal Cord Centre (a state-of-the-art facility that brings together SCI specialists under one roof).
The objectives of the Consumer Program are to increase consumer involvement in a multi-disciplinary collaborative partnership between researchers, care providers and industry for maximum impact on health and quality of life of those living with SCI.
|
RHI's Consumer Roadmap outlines the Consumer Program objectives, areas of focus and current activities.
|
Areas of Focus
The Program intends to meet its objectives by:
> Research involvement – develop educational materials to encourage consumers to participate in clinical studies and to be integrated as members of research teams.
> Self-management of health – provide self-management tools and resources to people with SCI to minimize the incidence and severity of secondary complications and improve overall quality of life.
> Advocacy – foster collaborations with individuals and organizations to advocate for funding and changes in practice that will improve quality of life for SCI consumers.
Advisory Committee and Roadmap
The Consumer Advisory Committee provides a representative voice for SCI consumers and their supporters. In consultation with the Consumer Advisory Committee, RHI has developed a roadmap which describes the program's objectives and activities.
DOWNLOAD THE CONSUMER ROADMAP
VIEW A LIST OF THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Current Activities
> Are you a researcher? Use this handy postcard that gives tips on how to engage people with lived experience in SCI research
> We often work with organizations that host events to share research knowledge with people with SCI and their families. Check out our News & Events section for the latest updates.
> Get information on spinal cord injury, how to stay active and get support.
> Read important information about what you should know before you participate in research.
> Want to learn more about SCI research? Download these fact sheets (finding SCI research news and accessing SCI research articles) to help get you started!