Patient perspectives on clinical environment accessibility: a qualitative study in severe vision loss

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Accessibility Studies
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Eye care providers must accommodate patients with visual impairments, yet clinic accessibility is understudied.
• Stakeholder involvement is crucial for intentional and thoughtful eye clinic design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify challenges and practical solutions for improving the accessibility of eye clinic design for visually impaired patients.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with 20 adults with visual impairment and blindness.
• Participants were recruited through the Canadian Council of the Blind's 'Get Together with Technology' initiative.
• Interviews were conducted via video conferencing, transcribed, de-identified, coded, and analyzed for themes.

Main Results:

• Key themes included intentionality of accommodations, patient confidence, and specific design features.
• Participants with late-onset vision loss reported challenges adapting to new skills and technologies.
• Identified challenges and solutions pertained to paperwork, staff interactions, signage, obstructions, lighting, and transportation.

Conclusions:

• Clinic design accessibility for visually impaired patients is diverse, reflecting varied lived experiences.
• Practical suggestions for health services can meaningfully accommodate patients with visual impairment.