Factors influencing recovery following non-catastrophic injury in a motor vehicle accident: client perspectives.

Abstract

Purpose: Injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) can result in persistent impairments which contribute to decreased quality of life, chronic pain, and increased rates of mental health symptoms. A more explicit understanding of the factors influencing recovery from the perspective of injured persons is needed to inform clinical decision making and rehabilitation service delivery in the Canadian context. This study addressed the following research question: From the perspective of injured persons, what factors are identified as influencing recovery following a non-catastrophic injury sustained in an MVA?

Methods: This study employed a qualitative interpretive descriptive study design. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with five occupational therapy clients with non-catastrophic injuries receiving auto insurer funded occupational therapy post-MVA. Constant comparative analysis was used for analysis of interview transcripts.

Results: Prominent factors identified as influencing recovery post-MVA included accepting a new version of self, poor mental health, social support, navigating the insurance system, and access to healthcare.

Conclusion: Findings from this study emphasize that recovery from an MVA must be understood within the context of the insurance system, adding to previous research which suggests that claim-related factors impact recovery following an MVA.