The Progressive Goal Attainment Program ( PGAP®) is designed to prevent or reduce the severity of disability that can arise following injury or illness by providing individuals with a tool set that assists them in progressing with life.
At LDOT , our therapists are very aware of the challenges our clients face when they try to get back to their normal activities after suffering an accident or injury. Sometimes, pain, anxiety, depression or symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder affect the ability for one to get “on with life”. They become what is often referred to as “chronically disabled”.
Whether addressed in relation to personal, social or health care costs; chronic disability remains one of the most expensive health problems facing modern society. PGAP® was designed to target psychosocial risk factors for disability. Psychosocial factors were chosen by Dr. Michael Sullivan PhD as targets of the intervention on the basis of emerging research supporting their relevance to return-to- work outcomes and the ability to change through intervention.
How does PGAP® work?
During an initial screening, out therapists determine whether a client is a suitable candidate for PGAP®. During the first session, clients are invited to view one of 4 PGAP Information Videos. Different videos have been developed to address factors specific to different disabling conditions. The videos feature interviews with medical and rehabilitation experts on the factors that contribute to successful rehabilitation and recovery. The idea is that our clients are informed of the research behind what they are trying to accomplish.
In the initial weeks of the Program, the focus is on developing a structured activity schedule using a diary system to assist the client in resuming activities that have been affected by injury or illness. Activity goals are chosen by the client – your goals not ours – in order to promote resumption of family, social and occupational roles. Intervention techniques are used to target specific obstacles to rehabilitation progress . That is why PGAP® requires training and certification.
The sessions are limited to 10 weeks. If the client is not progressing or does not feel that this approach is for them, the programme can be terminated, saving time and cost to all.
We feel very strongly about this approach to managing chronic illness. If you have Chronic Pain, are a cancer survivor, suffer from anxiety, depression or have any other chronic health issue that you feel is preventing you from doing what you love to do or need to do in your life, ask us about PGAP®.