Validation of the Service Obstacles Scale for the traumatic brain injury population

Traumatic brain injury is a leading cause of death and disability iii the U nited States. Limited access to specialized medical and rehabilitation serv ices has been linked to poor outcomes. Literature provides little guidance for assessment of service obstacles and satisfaction with community resourc es. The present investigation describes the development of a specialized sc ale to evaluate caregivers' perceptions of brain injury services in the com munity. Results indicate good internal consistency and criterion-related va lidity of the Service Obstacles Scale. Lack of money for services and lack of adequate community resources were the greatest concerns voiced by respon dents, while lack of transportation was the least problematic. Comparisons are made with regard to family needs and respondents' post-injury life qual ity. Implications for future research are discussed.