Service guidelines, models, and protocols for integrating rehabilitation services in primary healthcare in Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa: a scoping review

PurposeThe WHO emphasises that rehabilitation services must be integrated into primary healthcare as an inherent part of universal health coverage. However, there is limited research on the integration of rehabilitation services in primary healthcare in low- and middle-income countries. The purpose of this paper is to identify and describe the literature on service guidelines, models, and protocols that support the integration of rehabilitation services in primary healthcare in the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa).MethodsA scoping review guided by Arksey and O'Malley's framework was conducted. Structured database and website searches identified published and unpublished records from 2010, which were subjected to eligibility criteria. Mendeley, JBI SUMARI, and Microsoft Excel were used to extract and synthesise the data.ResultsThe search strategy identified 542 records. Thirty-two records met the inclusion criteria. Shared care and community-based rehabilitation were the most reported practice models, and the implementation of the models, guidelines, and protocols was mostly described in mental health services.ConclusionThis review discusses BRICS countries' rehabilitation service guidelines, models, and protocols for primary healthcare integration and implementation challenges. Rehabilitation professionals should rethink, realign, and apply existing models because of the lack of primary healthcare integration directives.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThe integration of rehabilitation services in low-resourced and remote settings can be improved by involving community health workers and community rehabilitation workers in transdisciplinary teams.Peer support workers and community health workers can improve rehabilitation outcomes, particularly through shared care models that emphasize peer-to-peer learning, mentoring, and coaching.Self-management interventions can have a positive impact on functional outcomes.Integrated rehabilitation services in primary healthcare can be supported through community-based rehabilitation, which emphasises community involvement and engagement.