Health needs assessment of women with spinal cord injury in Greece: a qualitative study

Abstract

Women with spinal cord injuries (SCI) are a group with multiple unmet health needs, typically neglected in research and policy development. This study employs a participatory design approach. Three focus groups for in-depth, qualitative interviews were conducted to explore the health needs of women with SCI based on their lived experiences and assemble data from peer support trainers and health professionals. Findings revealed profound barriers that undermine the physical health, dignity, autonomy, and overall quality of life of women with SCI. Peer-support interventions were found to be irreplaceable regarding everyday living skills and social and emotional support. Healthcare providers need additional training, services require better internal coordination, and there is a shortage of specialized physical and psychological rehabilitation services. Interconnected challenges, including stigma, exclusionary policies, and the absence of multidisciplinary care, hinder their active participation in society. The findings emphasize the importance of conducting surveys to update health policies that address the issues experienced by women with SCI. Finally, a comprehensive approach is required to help women with SCI address the challenges they are facing that require greater resilience and effort to overcome—to empower them toward autonomous living and societal inclusion.