Grant: Travel Awards - Institute Community Support

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) causes drastic changes to an individual's physical health that can affect the ability to return to work. Traumatic SCI is defined by a sudden external force that acutely damages the spinal cord. Many individuals experience drastic changes to their physical and mental well-being which inhibits their ability to return to a pre-injury level of work. The labor market implications of traumatic SCI are poorly understood, but represent an essential dimension of post-injury stressors for patients. Increased absenteeism and a loss of productivity is a consequence of decreased mental and physical function post SCI. Furthermore, from a societal perspective, the potential economic consequences may be substantial such as reduced governmental income tax revenue and increased pressure on social services including unemployment insurance or disability payments. At an individual level, unemployment is associated with depression, anxiety, and a decrease in self-esteem. In contrast, employment is important for financial security, increases independence, strengthens social relationships, and enhances a sense of self-worth. In this health economics study, we will explore how employment and income is affected by traumatic SCI in working aged individuals. To empirically examine the effects of traumatic SCI, we will use econometric methodology to compare pre and post injury levels of employment and income. Our study will enhance the current body of knowledge by using a national administrative health database linked to tax files for objective measures of employment and income. This is the first study in Canada to get objective estimates for the change in income and employment as a result of SCI. The results of this study can inform policy makers and health officials about how to best help SCI survivors financially through post-injury rehabilitation, income support, and vocational services.