Perceptions and attitudes towards people with disabilities in Ghana: a qualitative study among healthcare providers

People with disabilities (PwDs) experience multiple challenges that affect their well-being, including access to health care. Their interactions with healthcare providers (HPs) including Nurses, Doctors, Physician Assistants, and Midwives significantly shape their healthcare experiences. Previous studies have shown the impact of HPs attitudes and perceptions toward PwDs. This study explores HPs’ attitudes and perceptions toward PwDs in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. A phenomenological study design was employed to collect qualitative data from 25 HPs in the Offinso North District and Kumasi metropolitan area. Thematic analysis of audio-recorded interviews revealed four main themes: perceptions of PwDs’ capabilities and limitations, perceptions of discrimination and stigma, attitudes toward care provision for PwDs, and empathy and attitudinal shifts. While some HPs demonstrated empathy and acknowledged PwDs’ right to care and support, significant barriers remained due to prejudice and societal misconceptions. The findings highlight how stigma and low expectations could negatively influence the quality of care that PwDs receive. Implementing training and educational interventions to dispel misconceptions, improve communication skills, and deepen awareness of PwDs challenges is crucial.