Challenges in accessibility and inclusion of people with disabilities in health services and social assistance

Abstract

Objective: To understand the experiences of people with disabilities, their family caregivers and service managers regarding public health policies and social assistance in Campo Grande, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, exploring their perceptions about the difficulties of access to these services and care. Method: it is a qualitative descriptive research, including people with physical disabilities, between 18 and 65 years, the family caregiver, and health and social care managers of their reference services. Data collection was carried out between 2018 and 2019, through interviews, organized by the Collective Subject Discourse technique, and analyzed and discussed based on scientific literature. Results and Discussion: with 32 participants, the results highlight barriers of physical, technological and communicational accessibility, as well as difficulties in public transport and health services infrastructure. Geographical and organizational challenges were also identified, impacting the autonomy and quality of life of these people. Final considerations: the study revealed the daily difficulties faced by people with disabilities and their caregivers, highlighting the complexity of barriers and the need for collaborative and comprehensive solutions. An inclusive society requires effective public policies that guarantee equal opportunities for all, with special attention to people with disabilities.