Capabilities Approach Application in the Development of Regional Rehabilitation Systems in Russia

Abstract

In Russia, the rehabilitation system for people with disabilities (PwD) is developing rapidly, as resources allocated by the federal and regional authorities are increasing. The policy aims to integrate PwD into society through providing equal access to assistive technologies. To create a well-balanced regional rehabilitation system, the development measures include both indicators of actual life improvements (satisfaction of PwD with assistive technologies, comprehensive rehabilitation, facilitating access, etc.) and resources (staffing, costs, legislation, cross-sectoral cooperation, etc.). Panel data from 85 regions were collected (2018–2020). The analysis demonstrates that most systems need to be improved by applying the capabilities approach for cost-effectiveness.