A qualitative inquiry on medical service improvement and support needs based on medical service and self-determination experiences of people with disabilities

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate medical service improvement and support needs based on medical service and self-determination experiences of people with physical disabilities, visual or hearing impairments along with parents of children with the same type of disability. Method: Focus group interviews were conducted with participants in seven groups, consisting of 12 adults with physical disabilities, visual or hearing impairments as well as 10 parents. All the collected data were analyzed using a constant comparative method. Results: From the analysis, seven main themes emerged as follows: (a) disease and medical services across types of disability, (b) positive experiences regarding health and medical services, (c) difficulties in using health and medical services, (d) self-determination issues regarding health and medical services, (e) useful tips for health and medical services, (f) health care methods and difficulties, and (g) support needs in using health and medical services. Conclusion: Implications and future directions were provided to improve health and medical services for people with disabilities.