Browsing by Author "Abrahams, Shaunelia Heidi"

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    Wheelchair users’ experiences of access to healthcare in Western Cape Province, South Africa
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2024-03) Abrahams, Shaunelia Heidi; Visagie, Surona; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Centre for Rehabilitation Studies.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY: Background: Individuals with physical impairments who rely on wheelchairs often face significant difficulties when it comes to accessing healthcare services. There has been limited investigation into the accessibility of healthcare for individuals who use wheelchairs in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Aim: The focus of this study was to investigate the barriers and facilitators wheelchair user's experience when accessing healthcare facilities in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Method: An investigation was carried out using a qualitative descriptive study design to explore healthcare access for wheelchair users through the use of the ACCESS Framework. Information was gathered through semi-structured interviews done virtually, telephonically or in-person from a group of 12 individuals who reside across 3 districts in the Western-Cape. An analysis was conducted using thematic methods. Findings: The study revealed that individuals who use wheelchairs encounter various barriers and facilitators when trying to access healthcare services in their local areas. Themes were identified using the ACCESS framework: availability, accessibility, affordability, adequacy, and acceptability. Various obstacles were found, including challenges with travel, steep ramps, inadequate toilets, inefficient patient care, operational system shortcomings, higher out-of-pocket expenses, and a lack of compassion from healthcare professionals. Key facilitators that were identified include the adequacy of infrastructure, a focus on patient-centred care, efficient services, financial support, and supportive health professionals. Conclusion: Despite notable facilitators in addressing the needs of wheelchair users in health spaces, in the Western Cape Province it was evident that more effort is required. Wheelchair users faced numerous obstacles that impeded their access to health care. The availability, affordability, accessibility, acceptability, and adequacy of health care must be improved to serve this population better.