Healthcare Self-advocacy Strategies for Consumers with Spinal Cord Injury: Qualitative Interviews with Consumers and Professionals

Abstract

To explore consumer perspectives on effective self-advocacy in the health care setting for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), compared to rehabilitation professionals. Semi-structured qualitative interviews. In-person interviews were conducted with consumers. Telephone interviews were conducted with SCI professionals. Seven SCI consumers (5 men, 2 women); 4 professionals Not applicable Coding and thematic analysis of professionally transcribed qualitative interview data. Domain analysis revealed several domains and sub-domains: 1) primary care provider (PCP), with sub-domains of finding a PCP, qualities to look for in a doctor, and communication; 2) Equipment, with sub-domains of issues with obtaining equipment and insurance issues; 3) Self-Advocacy Skill Development, with sub-domains of general skills and health care navigation. Consumers recommend the most effective self advocacy skills they have experienced in the health care setting, as echoed by rehabilitation professionals.