1. The multifaceted care-seeking practices among caregivers of children with cerebral palsy: Perspectives from mothers and providers in Ghana.
- Author
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Fonzi V, Sheriff B, Dalglish S, Anum A, Dwomo Agyei E, Diggs D, Eboigbe L, Owusu PG, and Sakyi KS
- Subjects
- Adult, Evaluation Studies as Topic, Female, Ghana, Grounded Theory, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Help-Seeking Behavior, Humans, Male, Maternal Age, Middle Aged, Patient Acceptance of Health Care, Social Stigma, Surveys and Questionnaires, Young Adult, Caregivers psychology, Cerebral Palsy psychology, Mothers psychology
- Abstract
Background: Research on cerebral palsy (CP) has lacked emphasis on knowledge and treatment practices among caregivers, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where socio-cultural contexts encourage a variety of treatment alternatives. In this study, we explored the beliefs and experiences that motivate care-seeking practices among caregivers of children with CP in Ghana., Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 caregivers, 10 medical providers, and 5 alternative providers in the Greater Accra Region. Participant interviews were analyzed using principles adapted from grounded theory. A conceptual model was constructed to illustrate salient patterns and motivational factors influencing care-seeking practices., Results: Participants' experiences showed that caregivers initially sought physiotherapy and prescription medications from medical providers. Many of them then transitioned to alternative methods to search for a cure or address specific CP symptoms. Over time, most caregivers discontinued both medical and alternative care in favor of at-home treatment. A few withdrew completely from all forms of care. Cost of treatment, caregiver burden, and stigma strongly inhibited care-seeking outside the home., Conclusion: Although caregivers were open to exploring a variety of treatment options, at-home treatment was preferred by long-time caregivers for its convenience, low cost, and adaptability to patient and caregiver needs., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.
- Published
- 2021
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