ABSTRACT
Purpose: Clubfoot is a common disabling condition that is prevalent across all populations. Approximately, one out of 750 children globally suffers from clubfoot, and around 150,000 to 200,000 children are born with clubfoot every year with 80% of the cases occurring in developing countries. Clubfoot can result in mobility impairments when not properly managed and researchers have argued that understanding knowledge and perceptions are key components to early identification and effective management of clubfoot. The study explored the barriers to clubfoot management from the perspectives of caregivers and healthcare providers in Duayaw Nkwanta, Ghana. Methods: A total of 26 participants made up of 22 caregivers of children with clubfoot and six healthcare providers were purposively sampled for the study guided by a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Qualitative data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide through in-depth face-to-face interviews. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically and presented as findings. Results: High cost of treatment, long travel distance, long hours spent at the treatment facility, non-availability of clubfoot treatment services, late reporting of clients for treatment, and non-compliance of parents/caregivers with treatment protocols were identified as the barriers to effective management of clubfoot. Conclusion: These findings have substantial implications for current interventions to effectively manage clubfoot in Ghana.
ABSTRACT
The health status and quality of life of disabled people are of immense public health concern and the Sustainable Development Goals cannot be achieved if the healthcare needs of disabled people are not met. A qualitative case study was conducted in the Bosomtwe District of Ghana to ascertain personal factors that affect disabled people's access to healthcare in the context of disability stigma. A total of 30 disabled participants were selected through purposive sampling, and data were collected through an interview guide utilizing a face-to-face interview and focus group discussion. Themes were developed and presented as findings and relevant quotes have been provided to support the findings. The study found factors such as self-stigma, knowledge about disability condition, financial challenges, location and accessibility challenges, communication challenges and lack of personal assistants which affect their access to healthcare. The experiences of disabled people have influenced them to construct their meanings regarding their conditions and subsequent health-seeking behavior. It is recommended that the district health directorate in collaboration with the National Commission for Civic Education should intensify public health education in the district which should be custom-made to suit the community's needs and understanding of disability taking into account local culture and belief system.