2006 Programs and Objectives

PARSA’s work under the directorship of Mary MacMakin has always been predicated on the premise that the well-being of disabled people is best served by a holistic approach to the health of the patient and that in Afghanistan attention also has to be given to the economic circumstance, family situation, and mental health of each patient. PARSA has always strived to assist each patient to become a functional and contributing member of his or her family and community.

This year, PARSA proposes to expand our services to our disabled patients to provide comprehensive treatment focused on supporting them to become as healthy and functional as possible. PARSA will be adding psychosocial programs and  psychological services including diagnostic services and treatment for mentally disabled patients. These services will include limited services to head injured patients, patients with serious mental illnesses, and developmental disabilities.

Over 30% of the clients that come to our clinic every month are experiencing somatic symptoms associated with psychological distress rather than organic pathology. It has been reported that over 70% of Afghans have identified symptoms of mental illness. Disabled patients have the added burden of coping with their disabilities. In addition to psychological services we will be adding a case manager who will be trained to assist our most difficult cases to improve their quality of life. This professional will also be trained in vocational assessment and job search support so that we can coordinate with other agencies and provide a future oriented outlook for our patients and follow up "barrier removal" support. To accomplish this expansion of our physiotherapy and rehabilitation services we are seeking funding for the year 2006.