CBIST Spotlight: ACBIS Goes to Saudi Arabia

Last November, three CBISTs had the honor to travel to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to host a CBIS training at King Fahad Medical Center (KFMC). The staff at KFMC were excited about the opportunity to learn best practices in brain injury rehabilitation. The CBISTs, Angie Jackson, MS-CCC/SLP, MBA, CBIST, of Pate Rehabilitation in Dallas, Texas; Stephanie Kolakowsky-Hayner, Ph.D., CBIST, FACRM; and Dave Anders, MS-CCC/SLP, CBIST, of On With Life in Ankeny, Iowa answered questions about their experience and what they gained from their time in Riyadh. See their responses below.

Tell us about the individuals that took the course.

The class had a total of 55 people comprised of Nurses, PT, OT, Speech, Psychology, and Physicians. Most were from KFMC, however, there were a few from the surrounding area in Saudi Arabia that heard about the course and were able to participate as well.

Was the training and testing the same as we do here in the U.S.?

The training was based on the U.S. information, modules, and EBIG; however extra time was given to discuss situations that differ in Saudi from the U.S. (such as cultural and epidemiology). This provided an opportunity to learn about how these differences impact rehabilitation practices. The test, however, was the same as being used in the U.S. today. We did review responses after to determine if there were any questions that needed reconsideration based on the practice differences from Saudi to the U.S.

How did you address cultural variations in the course?

Information was provided based on the Essential Brain Injury Guide and U.S. practices, but the instructors looked up and provided additional information relevant to Saudi as well as having open discussions with the class about the cultural differences and how these impact how rehabilitation is done. This provided for an opportunity to learn on both sides of the table.

As a Certified Brain Injury Specialist Trainer, what was the most significant thing you gained from the experience?

New connections with outstanding colleagues dedicated to helping individuals with brain injury, and a new appreciation for the hospitable Saudi culture. The trainers agreed that the experience was amazing and that they each gained as much as they had to give during their time there.

Angie Jackson, MS-CCC/SLP, MBA, CBIST; Stephanie Kolakowsky-Hayner, Ph.D., CBIST, FACRM; and Dave Anders, MS-CCC/SLP, CBIST, pose with staff at King Fahad Medical Center.