Staff education promotes inclusivity and accessibility of health services for people with disability

Introduction 
For people living with disability, navigating mainstream healthcare presents challenges that restrict access to services and limit participation in health-related decisions, consequently contributing to unmet healthcare needs and poor health outcomes. Recognising the need for accessible and inclusive healthcare, Blue Sky Community Services, Mid North Coast Local Health District, and people with lived experience of disability co-designed an education program for health service staff.

Methods 
A mixed-methods approach to evaluate the program impact was employed. The evaluation had five phases conducted over a three-year period. Data were collected via surveys, review of information recording practices, and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, and qualitative data were analysed thematically.

Results 
The evaluation demonstrated that the education program was successful in improving staff knowledge, understanding and confidence to work with people with disability and their families. It also increased awareness of and communication between health services and local disability service providers. Including people with disability and their families in the development of education materials contributed to the impact, meaning and relevance of education for staff. Through these outcomes, the project has contributed to improving accessibility and inclusivity of health services for people with disability and their families within the MNCLHD.

Discussion and Implications for Rural Health 
In rural health settings, barriers to health care access are amplified due to geographic location, limited resources, and a lack of specialised services. This program demonstrated that inclusivity and accessibility of health services can be enhanced through co-designed, targeted education and resources focused on developing the knowledge, understanding, communication and confidence of health service staff. By focusing on person-centered care and fostering stronger connections between health services and local disability service providers, the program addressed challenges faced by rural communities. This collaboration ensured contextually relevant education and training, leading to sustainable improvements in health care experiences for people with disability.