Accessibility to health services among people with disabilities in southern Africa

This research project will study the availability and accessibility of health services to people with disabilities and the degree of inclusion of people with disabilities in health service delivery in South Africa and Malawi. By focusing on people with d isabilities in these two African countries we are targeting an oft neglected and vulnerable sub-population. This project will strengthen and expand research that can contribute to equalisation of opportunities for people with disabilities and the sustaina ble improvements in the health and well-being of this group of people, in particular women and children with disabilities and children with disabled mothers. The project comprises two complementary studies: 1. Difficulties faced by disabled people in poo r communities when Accessing Health Services - an anthropological study(The DAHS study). The study will focus on the users of health services from the point of view of people with disabilities and their families. The study will employ an anthropological a pproach in gathering data concerning peoples knowledge, experiences and practises with respect to health and access to health services. 2. Study of knowledge, attitudes and practices among health service users and providers (KAP study). In order to achie ve this elucidation, two complimentary but different approaches will be utilised: Users knowledge, attitudes and practices with respect to health and health services will be assessed through a comparative survey to include both people with and without dis abilities. The knowledge, attitudes and practices of health service providers will be approached through the use of qualitative individual and/or group interviews.