Health care is a human right for all 33
Health care is a human right for all
Good health care prevents problems that make disabilities worse. Good health care
also prevents health problems caused by disabilities. Treating a modest problem, at
the right time—such as
treating a pressure sore
caused by sitting or
We must promote good health with good
nutrition, physical activity, reproductive
lying in one position
too long—stops it
from turning into a
life-threatening crisis.
health care, and prevention and treatment
of health problems. We must also change the
conditions of our lives so we have power over
our own health.
In Thailand we pay
less than US$1 for
medical care in state
hospitals.
Health care must be made available to all disabled women,
regardless of social status. Good health care includes free or
low-cost health services,
insurance or access to funds to
pay for health care, and public
transportation that is easy to
use. This is especially important
I know this lump might be
dangerous. But what shall I
do? The medicines are too
for women who are isolated
or poor.
expensive and the clinic is
very far. Besides, everyone will
probably laugh at me.
Poverty and health
Economic and trade policies worldwide have created more poverty,
fewer resources for health care, and greater social differences between
people. These inequities have made it harder for women to get health
care for themselves and their families. User fees for health care are
another barrier to health services. Other financial barriers, such
as the cost of medicines and transportation, can make health care
unaffordable.
It is very hard for women with disabilities to get
health care. In most countries in Africa, for example,
only 1 out of every 100 people with disabilities has
access to the health services he or she needs. Added to
the lack of services and facilities is the cost, distance,
physical barriers, and harmful attitudes. Even when a
woman has some money, the health services available are
rarely appropriate for the health needs of women with
disabilities, especially their reproductive health needs.
What good is it to go
for a checkup? Even if
the checkup is free, the
medicines won’t be. My
family can’t afford to
buy another medicine
for me.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007