NIDRR Model Systems

Model Systems are specialized programs of care in spinal cord injury (SCI), traumatic brain injury (TBI) and burn injury, funded by the National Institute on Disability Research and Rehabilitation (NIDRR) to pool information and conduct research with the goal of improving long-term functional, vocational, cognitive and quality-of-life outcomes in these populations. NIDRR grants model system designation to institutions that are national leaders in medical research and patient care and provide the highest level of comprehensive specialty services, from the point of injury through rehabilitation and re-entry into full community life.

Model System grantees contribute data to national statistical centers that track the long-term consequences of SCI, TBI and burn injuries, and conduct research in the areas of medical rehabilitation, health and wellness, service delivery, short- and long-term interventions, and systems research. Each Model System is also charged with disseminating information and research findings to patients, family members, health care providers, educators, policy makers and the general public.

NIDRR administers three separate Model Systems programs: