University of Texas at Dallas researchers are using geospatial mapping techniques to identify social and environmental obstacles in communities that might impede burn injury survivors’ reentry into society. The project is designed to help patients with burn injuries better adapt to their lives after medical discharge, including improving patient access to transportation, employment, food and other necessities. The UTD and UT Southwestern researchers received a five-year, nearly $250,000 grant for their geospatial mapping project from the NIDILRR. Patients with burn injuries often experience a different type of recovery than patients with other kinds of injuries, Scotch said. “Social stigma could block true reintegration into the community, even if the patient is functionally healthy.”The North Texas Burn Rehabilitation Model System is one of only four burn model system programs in the U.S.