Voices From the Journey: Exploring Rehabilitation Experience of Individuals with Disabilities in a South African Province
Background: Globally, 16% of the population is affected by disabilities, with increasing prevalence due to non-communicable diseases and longer lifespans. This group often faces shorter lifespans, poorer health, and greater challenges than non-disabled peers. Rehabilitation services are essential for improving independence, health, and quality of life by facilitating participation in education, work, and social roles. However, in South Africa, particularly in rural areas, providing these services is difficult. Methods: This qualitative study explored the experiences of people with disabilities in KwaZulu-Natal regarding their interactions with rehabilitation services. Six participants were recruited from a private facility using purposive sampling to ensure diverse representation. Data were collected through focus group discussions, transcribed, and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis, presented in vignettes. Findings: Three main themes emerged: support and access to services, quality and effectiveness of services, and issues of equity and advocacy. Participants noted the importance of family support, systemic and socio-economic barriers, disparities in service provision, negative interactions with healthcare professionals, and financial constraints. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for improved patient-centered care, advocacy, and policy reforms to enhance equitable access and quality of rehabilitation services in KwaZulu-Natal.
Related content
-
Patient Family & Community EngagementBuilding, Evolving, & Elevating PFACs: 8 Lessons Learned on My Journey from Advisor to PFAC Leader
By Vicki Mascareño Nelson My journey to becoming a Patient Experience Partner at the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVM) has been years in the making. It began in 2018 when I became a Patient/Family Advisor on the UVM Children’s Hospital PFAC. My daughter’s experience of living with chronic illnesses led me to want to
Learn more -
Patient Family & Community EngagementElevating Pediatric PX: Culture, Champions & the Power of Parent Advisors Episode Summary
This episode explores the evolution of a pediatric Patient Experience. Dive into core values, shared ownership, and practical strategies for building trust, driving change, and creating meaningful experiences for children, families, and staff.
Learn more -
Patient Family & Community EngagementThe patient ombudsperson’s experience of patient partnership and mutual understanding of rights
Mutual understanding between the patient and the healthcare professional can be considered a key factor of a positive patient experience in the care relationship. Mutual understanding can be promoted through patient partnership, which, in this personal and professional narrative, the author (a patient ombudsperson, known as patient ombudsman, and researcher of patient experience) describes as
Learn more
Ask questions, share insights and connect with other experience leaders.
PX ConnectBecome a member for access to this resource and more:
- Live and On-demand Webinars and Connection Calls
- PX Papers, Case Studies and Research Reports
- PX Connect Online Community
- Discounts on Learning Programs and Events
Become a member for access to this resource and more:
- Live and On-demand Webinars and Connection Calls
- PX Papers, Case Studies and Research Reports
- PX Connect Online Community
- Discounts on Learning Programs and Events
Voices From the Journey: Exploring Rehabilitation Experience of Individuals with Disabilities in a South African Province
Access Now