Finnish Spinal Cord Injury Study (FinSCI)

The purpose of the Finnish Spinal Cord Injury Study (FinSCI) is to identify factors related to the health and functioning of people with spinal cord injury (SCI), their challenges with accessibility and how such factors are interconnected. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) is used in the study as a structured framework. The study participants will be recruited from three SCI outpatient clinics, which together are responsible for the life-time care of the SCI population in Finland.

Mixed methods are used including a questionnaire and interviews. The survey will be formed from patient-reported instruments; SCI-specified Spinal Cord Injury Secondary Condition Scale, Spinal Cord Independence Measure, Nottwil Environmental Factors Inventory Short Form and selected items of the generic instruments of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System and National study of health, well-being and service. The survey covers 51 ICF categories. The study results can help develop care and rehabilitation policies with SCI, the planning of training models and information provided to various parties involved.