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To examine the implementation of a novel Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Transition-Specific Service Model in Queensland, Australia to explore its potential for successful operationalization in a clinical context and what, if any, modifications were indicated., This study is part of a larger evaluation of the ABI Transitional Rehabilitation Service (ABITRS) Pilot Project using a Hybrid Type 1 research design. Data was drawn from a process evaluation nested within the larger study. Stirman et al.'s FRAME guided assessment of modifications made to the proposed Transition-Specific Service Model during implementation., The proposed Transition-Specific Service Model provided a foundational framework for establishing an ABI transitional rehabilitation service in Queensland. All designated key service delivery features of the model were implemented; context and content modifications occurred in response to the implementation experience. Priority areas for intervention were comprehensively addressed, with significant changes made to the proposed staffing profile to address an identified need for more senior clinicians., The ABITRS Pilot Project provided an opportunity to test and refine elements of an ABI Transition-Specific Service Model in a clinical context. Knowledge gained from this process has the potential to inform future design of transitional rehabilitation services for acquired brain injury.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the influence of participation in a designated acquired brain injury (ABI) transitional rehabilitation service (ABI TRS) on outcome, in the context of a historical comparison group (HIST). Design : A cohort study, with retrospective comparison. Participants : 187 persons with ABI. Measures : The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), Mayo-Portland Adaptability Index (MPAI-4) and Sydney Psychosocial and Reintegration Scale (SPRS) were completed at discharge and 3 months after discharge. Participation in the ABI TRS involved interdisciplinary rehabilitation, 2-4 times per week, for 3 months after hospital discharge. Results : There was evidence that at 3 months, participants with ABI TRS showed stabilized psychological wellbeing, and improvements in MPAI-4 ability and participation scores; in addition to improvements in SPRS occupational activity and living skills scores. Conclusion : A designated ABI TRS may improve the transition from hospital to home, and could form an important part of the brain injury rehabilitation continuum, between the inpatient and community setting.