Our approach to research development is systematic and comprehensive entailing needs assessments, comprehensive review of scientific merit, research follow-up, and a translational process that ensures that the results of the research conducted at the Center are applied to improving the quality of daily life.
Priorities and research programs at the Center are developed as a result of a needs assessment. We identify and assemble different groups within the community served (individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers), researchers, policy-makers, nationally representative disability organizations, health care and special education providers, and contributors of research funds in a series of consultations throughout the priority-setting process. Every year, the Center holds conferences and workshops to gather opinions and current challenges on specific scientific, health, ethical, and administrative questions where a number of different disability specialists can define areas that are in need of new or further research.
Through a comprehensive application, review process, and the utilization of advisors from around the world, we insure the scientific merit of our projects and programs so that they meet international standards of ethical principles and good practice guidelines. Projects undergo regular scientific review to ensure that they continue to achieve their objectives. We also employ a translational process to the research findings that guarantees significant results are utilized effectively to enhance and benefit the lives of the disabled.
In addition to our projects, we support programs of national and global importance, having a direct impact on the independence of the disabled, emphasizing human rights, self-determination, equality, and integration of the disabled within their community. By implementing these programs, a profound impact on improving the lives of the disabled and their families can be achieved. In addition, they can reduce the economic impact disabilities have on health care and financial services provided by the government. An example is the The National Newborn Screening Program which aims at preventing disabilities that develop as the result of the high incidence of inherited metabolic and endocrine disorders in the Kingdom.
Future Perspectives
We have made great strides to implement research and utilize its outcomes successfully. It is important to understand that policies and services for the disabled cannot be undertaken in isolation; their participation is paramount in developing policies and services that impact them directly. We continue to invest in research projects that focus on policy issues. It is equally important to undertake research projects that define the roles of persons with disabilities and their families. The disabled can contribute positively towards this goal and assist in the development of research opportunities that could be translated into essential support services. An astute and candid vision is required from all those affected by disabilities, directly or indirectly, in developing a sound infrastructure. It is imperative that such support services are developed in view of short term and long term strategies.
In the years to come, we will continue to expand our activities to reflect the emerging types and causes of disability. We are only beginning to comprehend the interactions among the medical, environmental, and social factors that are associated with disability. New illnesses and conditions are constantly evolving, many of which are associated with poverty such as poor medical care, lack of prenatal care, low birth weight, isolation, substance abuse, and violence. These factors have a high correlation with impairments and disabilities. We will provide leadership within the scientific community affiliated with research and to society as a whole to better address disability issues. We will also continue to reaffirm our commitment to research that attempts to prevent the occurrence of disability and/or improves the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Building upon current accomplishments, our future aim is to focus substantial efforts into several significant areas of disability. Some areas of emphasis will bring resources to the Center to facilitate its mission. Other areas will highlight important program issues within the broad spectrum of disabilities. Future directions include increasing opportunities for input from individuals with disabilities; promoting improved collection and use of statistics; implementing databases for research needs; disseminating research information; and building international partnerships.