Study and Evaluation of Access to Medical Services for Girls and Women with Disabilities in Georgia

Abstract

Introduction. In Georgia, women and girls with disabilities face intersecting barriers rooted in gender, disability, and socioeconomic disadvantage. Despite legal commitments, systemic obstacles, shaped by post-Soviet legacies and institutional neglect, limit equitable healthcare access, particularly in reproductive services. This study investigates these challenges, revealing a persistent gap between policy frameworks and the everyday healthcare experiences of disabled women. Methodology. A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted in February 2025 to assess healthcare access among 50 women (aged 18–65) with physical or sensory disabilities in Georgia. Using purposive sampling, participants from various regions were interviewed via structured questionnaires addressing accessibility, finances, transport, insurance, and communication. Data were collected through face-to-face or phone interviews, following ethical standards. Results were contextualized using comparative data from UN, WHO, and UNFPA. Results and Discussion. This study identified widespread barriers to healthcare for women and girls with disabilities in Georgia, including physical inaccessibility, transport issues, and financial exclusion. Discrimination by providers and lack of accessible information, especially in reproductive health, further hindered access. Most participants were unaware of public programs and had limited involvement in medical decisions. The findings underscore how societal attitudes and institutional neglect perpetuate healthcare inequities beyond infrastructure alone. Conclusion. The study shows that women and girls with disabilities in Georgia face multiple barriers to healthcare, including inaccessibility, financial strain, discrimination, and lack of information. These intersecting issues highlight the urgent need for inclusive policies, better infrastructure, and disability-sensitive medical training to ensure equitable care and uphold their rights.