Community-Based Rehabilitation Services in Low and Middle-Income Countries in the Asia-Pacific Region: Successes and Challenges in the Implementation of the CBR Matrix

Purpose: This literature review aims to explore the importance of physical therapy services and the increasing awareness of CBR, specifically related to challenges in its implementation in low and middle-income countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Method: A literature review of multiple databases was conducted to locate relevant articles written within the past five years. The databases used for the search were Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and PubMed. Results: Thirteen articles about CBR were included in the literature review. These consist of studies on the quality of life, access to healthcare services, and barriers to CBR, as well as about the impact of CBR to LMICs and stakeholders. The articles demonstrate the vast potential of CBR, especially in LMICs in the Asia-Pacific region, with a significant positive impact on the lives of people with disabilities. Conclusion: CBR has improved the quality of life, access to medical services, functional independence, autonomy, community inclusion, and empowerment of people with disabilities in LMICs in the Asia-Pacific region. However, challenges in the implementation of CBR remain. These include lack of awareness and understanding of CBR, and physical, environmental, socio-economical and personal barriers.