Navigating Health Care for Children with Disabilities: Perspectives of Male Caregivers in Rural Kenya

Abstract

This qualitative study explores how male caregivers in rural Kenya navigate healthcare options for their children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Conducted through four focus group discussions with 22 male caregivers, the research identifies four key themes: Limited local healthcare solutions, financial burdens, cultural reliance on traditional medicine, and spiritual coping mechanisms. The study highlights the significant challenges faced by male caregivers in accessing conventional healthcare services and underscores the importance of integrating local cultural resources and healthcare systems to provide comprehensive care for children with disabilities in rural Sub-Saharan Africa.