Exploring the effectiveness of music therapy intervention as part of interdisciplinary assessment and treatment for patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness

A four - year study took place at a Rehabilitation hospital in Ireland where two music therapists worked as an integral part of a Prolonged Disorders of Consciousness (PDOC) interdisciplinary team (IDT). The study aimed to explore the impact of music therapy as part of IDT assessment and treatment for patients with PDOC and their families. PDOC is defined as diminished or absent responsiveness and awareness persisting for more than four weeks following a catastrophic brain injury. A mixed method approach incorporating a case study series, the Music Therapy Assessment Tool for Awareness in Disorders of Consciousness (MATADOC), questionnaires from patient’s families and IDT and video analysis was undertaken. Three research questions were explored:Does the inclusion of music therapy within an IDT enhance the service offered to PDOC patients? How does music therapy impact on the experience of family members? Can a music therapy assessment and treatment pathway be developed for this patient population?Three case studies taken from the case study series are outlined to illustrate aspects of the clinical work and address the research questions. Findings suggest that music therapy can enhance an IDT and have a positive impact on family members.