Community-based rehabilitation for people with physical and mental disabilities in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

We conducted a systematic review to assess the effectiveness of community-based rehabilitation (CBR) for people with physical and mental disabilities in low- and middle-income countries, and/or their family/carers and community. We identified 15 eligible studies, 10 of which were randomised controlled studies. Overall, the studies suggested that CBR may be effective in improving the clinical outcomes and enhancing functioning and quality of life of the person with disabilities and his/her carer. However, this conclusion must be interpreted with caution due to the small number of studies, concerns about study quality and lack of information on cost-effectiveness of the interventions.