Abstract:
This study explores the lived experiences of persons with physical disabilities in
Barangay Cabugnayan, San Juan, La Union, focusing on barriers to healthcare service
availability. Geographic isolation, limited healthcare personnel, and inadequate facilities hinder
access to essential care, leading to costly, long-distance travel and inconsistent local services.
Participants rely on sporadic medical missions and self-care strategies due to financial
constraints and medication shortages. Despite these challenges, they demonstrate resilience
through faith, family support, and home remedies. The findings highlight the urgent need for
healthcare programs that are available, affordable, and responsive to the specific needs of
persons with physical disabilities in rural areas. Strengthening local health systems through
regular outreach, disability-sensitive training for health workers, subsidized transportation, and
improved coordination between barangay and provincial units is crucial. These results align with
broader research showing that rural healthcare in the Philippines faces workforce shortages,
infrastructure gaps, and financial barriers that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
Implementing mobile health units, community health worker programs, and inclusive policy
planning can significantly improve healthcare availability and equity for persons with disabilities
in underserved communities. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach
that integrates formal healthcare services with community-based support to ensure sustainable
and equitable health outcomes for persons with physical disabilities in remote areas.
