{
  "abstract": "Objectives This study assessed the use, accessibility, and caregiver perceptions of rehabilitation services among children with cerebral palsy (CP) receiving care at Mulago and Kawempe National Referral Hospitals in Uganda.Methods A cross-sectional mixed-methods design was employed. Quantitative data were collected from caregivers of children aged 1–9 years using structured questionnaires to assess access, utilization, and knowledge of rehabilitation services. Qualitative data were gathered through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews to explore barriers, facilitators, and caregiving experiences. Quantitative data were analyzed using STATA version 16, with descriptive and inferential statistics. Thematic analysis was used for qualitative data.Results A total of 422 caregivers participated. While 94% reported using at least one rehabilitation service, disparities emerged by site and caregiver background. Caregivers attending Mulago Hospital were five times more likely to report non-use of services (p=0.045), and unemployed caregivers were three times less likely to access care (p=0.03). Despite high knowledge of rehabilitation benefits, attitudes revealed emotional strain: 86% believed services could be a waste of time, and 52% doubted curability. Common barriers included financial constraints, stigma, transport difficulties, and limited-service availability. Facilitators included peer support, trust in providers, and observed child improvement.Conclusions Despite high reported use, caregiver attitudes and socioeconomic barriers hinder consistent access and utilization of rehabilitation services for children with CP in Uganda. Interventions should strengthen caregiver support, reduce structural barriers, and address attitudinal gaps to improve outcomes.",
  "authors": [
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda"
      ],
      "name": "Dorah Nakayiwa"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Child and Family Foundation, Uganda, Kampala, Uganda"
      ],
      "name": "Ruth Nakalembe"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Child and Family Foundation, Uganda, Kampala, Uganda"
      ],
      "name": "Edirisa Kibuuka"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Child and Family Foundation, Uganda, Kampala, Uganda"
      ],
      "name": "Harriet Babikako"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda"
      ],
      "name": "Ezekiel Mupere"
    }
  ],
  "title": "39 Use, access, and caregiver perceptions of rehabilitation services for children with cerebral palsy in Uganda",
  "uid": "812f5886-4d36-5387-9f55-51828de37f74"
}