Case Studies
Europe - Greece
Community Case Management Services (CCMS) were approached to provide case management to a client living in rural Greece. The concept of case management and community-based rehabilitation was unknown here until now. Disability in any form is viewed with suspicion and is often hidden away. Sakis was the victim of a medical negligence causing hypoxic brain injury when undergoing surgery in the United Kingdom, which was not available in Greece. Sensitivity to culture issues, lifestyle, education, and expectation was of paramount importance. It requires a gamut of skills based on both knowledge, interpersonal skills, and immense experience. In addition, there was also a language barrier, which had to be overcome. Education of family members to understand and give them insight into Sakis difficulties and to what strategies could be implemented to overcome these was required.
A package of individual training was developed, and a support team recruited locally. Training DVD’s with Greek commentary were produced. A local co-ordinator who spoke English was appointed, who also in conjunction with the team produced weekly reports and updates. Support programmes were implemented and weekly activity programmes drawn up to provide a work ethos, which would not have been considered previously, Sakis rarely venturing out.
A small sales booth was purchased, and Sakis with support from his enablers was enabled to sell his wares within the nearby town.
From previously being a virtual recluse he now has become a local personality and increased the awareness of brain injury within his community. His quality of life is unrecognisable from what it previously was. To boot he has also been given awards for his bravery and achievement by the local mayor.