Exploring Experiences in Accessing Transportation Among Patients with Spinal Cord Injury.

Abstract

Background: Accessible transportation is vital for independence and social participation among individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). In Bangladesh, transport systems remain largely inaccessible, limiting mobility and quality of life. Aim: To gain insight into the subjective experiences of patients with Spinal Cord Injury regarding the accessibility of transportation systems. Methodology: A qualitative phenomenological approach was adopted. Nine community-dwelling individuals with SCI who use wheelchairs were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face semi structured interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis framework. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of Bangladesh Health Professions Institute (BHPI). Results: Five major themes emerged: negotiating inaccessibility in transport systems; vulnerability, health management and physical risk; social and emotional burden; adaptive strategies and skills; and aspirations for inclusion and systemic change. Participants described inaccessible vehicles, unsafe infrastructure, stigma, financial burdens, and health risks. Despite these challenges, they demonstrated resilience through adaptive strategies and expressed strong aspirations for accessible design, policy enforcement, and equal mobility rights. Conclusion: Transportation barriers for individuals with SCI in Bangladesh are structural and systemic. Inclusive planning and effective policy implementation are crucial for equitable mobility. Keywords: Spinal Cord Injury, Transportation Accessibility, Wheelchair Users, Social Inclusion, Qualitative Study, Bangladesh.