The Road Less Traveled: The Availability of Healthcare Services for Persons with Physical Disabilty Living in Remote Areas of San Juan, La Union

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.