Spinal Cord Research Help
AboutCategoriesLatest ResearchContact
Subscribe
Spinal Cord Research Help

Making Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Research Accessible to Everyone. Simplified summaries of the latest research, designed for patients, caregivers and anybody who's interested.

Quick Links

  • Home
  • About
  • Categories
  • Latest Research
  • Disclaimer

Contact

  • Contact Us
© 2025 Spinal Cord Research Help

All rights reserved.

  1. Home
  2. Research
  3. Assistive Technology
  4. Assistive Technology Provision Within the Navajo Nation: User and Provider Perceptions

Assistive Technology Provision Within the Navajo Nation: User and Provider Perceptions

Qualitative Health Research, 2014 · DOI: 10.1177/1049732314546755 · Published: November 1, 2014

Assistive TechnologyHealthcareResearch Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study explores the experiences of Navajo Nation residents with disabilities regarding assistive technology (AT). It examines their awareness, needs, usage, and satisfaction with AT devices and services. The research also investigates the perspectives of AT providers on the facilitators and barriers they encounter while delivering these services within the Navajo Nation. The ultimate goal is to identify factors that can improve AT provision, ensuring more individuals with disabilities have access to the technology they need.

Study Duration
Not specified
Participants
28 AT users and 7 AT providers
Evidence Level
Level IV, Qualitative Study

Key Findings

  • 1
    AT users often feel misunderstood by society, government, insurers, and healthcare providers, leading to unmet needs and a lack of support.
  • 2
    Inadequate infrastructure, including housing, communication, and transportation, significantly hinders AT access and usability.
  • 3
    AT providers face challenges in balancing client needs with funding limitations and complex eligibility requirements, often acting as intermediaries between clients and payers.

Research Summary

This qualitative study explored the experiences of assistive technology (AT) users and providers within the Navajo Nation. Focus groups were conducted to gather data on AT awareness, needs, use, satisfaction, facilitators, and barriers. Key findings revealed that AT users often feel misunderstood, and inadequate infrastructure and limited insurance coverage create significant barriers to AT access. AT providers balanced client needs with financial viability, often acting as intermediaries. The study emphasizes the need for culturally appropriate, consistent, and locally accessible health services, as well as increased awareness and advocacy to improve AT provision within the Navajo Nation.

Practical Implications

Improve Disability Awareness

Implement community-wide initiatives to educate the public about the needs and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

Enhance Infrastructure

Invest in improving housing, transportation, and communication systems to ensure accessibility for AT users.

Streamline Funding and Eligibility

Simplify funding processes and eligibility requirements to reduce confusion and increase access to AT devices and services.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Limited researcher presence on the reservation
  • 2
    Communication barriers
  • 3
    Delays in obtaining local community support

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Assistive Technology