Aims: The study sought to examine service related factors which influence cervical cancer screening among women with physical and sensory disabilities.
Methods: The study used a qualitative case study design using in depth interviews, field observations and document study to collect data. A purposive sample of primary respondents included 12 women with physical and sensory disabilities aged between 18 years old and 49 years old, these were recruited based on type and severity of disability. Six key informants were recruited from organizations working with people with disabilities and cervical cancer screening service providers. Key informants from disability organizations identified eligible primary participants. Thematic analysis was done using Nvivo 10 software.
Results: Women with disabilities identified various factors which affect accessibility of cervical cancer screening services, namely; structural design of the health facility, inappropriate screening equipment, inadequate access to information, education and communication (IEC) materials, confidentiality of service, and limited skills of service providers.
Conclusion: Women with physical and sensory disabilities encounter various barriers in accessing cervical cancer screening. This may lead to delayed detection and increased complications on clients who are found with an advanced stage of cervical cancer. Health service providers require skills in working with women with disabilities. Although legislature exists through the Persons with Disability Act of Zambia to promote accessible health services, it has not been fully enacted, therefore, there ought to be rigorous enforcement of existing legislature which promotes accessible health services.