International Research at Work

Working with the US State Department, UCPREF is overseeing an important new research project: Comparison of the Efficacy of Functional Motor Learning and Neuro-Developmental Treatments of Children with CP in Natural Environments. The study involves cross-border collaborations between the Faculty of Health Sciences Ben Gurion University, Negev, Israel; the Al-Hussein Society for the Rehabilitation of the Physically Challenged Amman, Jordan; and the Jerusalem Princess Basma Center for Disabled Children, East Jerusalem.

This project not only supports clinical research which will yield rigorous data to help guide best clinical practices for children and adults with CP, it improves care today for the participating children; cutting edge techniques and equipment are being brought into a literal “war zone”. Furthermore, the process of conducting this research brings clinicians and researchers across borders to exchange ideas and expertise for the good of Jordanian, Israeli and Palestinian disabled children and is a model for peace.

UCPREF took part in the inaugural meeting of the project in Aqaba, Jordan and is providing travel funds to allow the representatives from all three nations to attend the 9th International Congress for Children with Disabilities in Washington, DC on December 5, 2006.