Strengthening rehabilitation research and evidence

Epidemiological research is critical for the rehabilitation sector, as it provides data and information on health and functioning outcomes, including trends and risk factors, finds gaps and priorities, and guides policy decisions and investment. 

Much of the current research for rehabilitation focuses on clinical evidence and outcomes, however there is also a growing body of research for rehabilitation which focuses on broader health policy and health systems. Both research perspectives are equally important and provide complementary insights for the rehabilitation sector as a whole. 

The ultimate goal of rehabilitation research is to ensure that rehabilitation is evidence-based and achieves the best possible health and functioning outcomes for those needing rehabilitation around the world. 

WHO’s work focuses on guiding the direction of rehabilitation research and strengthening research capacity within the sector.