Knowledge, attitude and practices of persons with disabilities towards COVID-19: Evidence from the Islamic Republic of Iran

This study aimed to examine the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of people with disabilities (PWD) towards COVID-19 in Iran and identify its facilitators and barriers. 

A mixed qualitative-quantitative study was conducted. The researchers collected data using a self-administered online questionnaire which its participants were selected randomly from the entire PWDs in Iran. Quantitative data were analysed using the SPSS. To identify facilitators and barriers of improving KAP, semi-structured interviews were done, in which participants were selected using a purposeful sampling technique, and analysed by content analysis approach.

The mean scores of knowledge, attitude and practice of PWDs were 17.7, 16.6, and 16.9, respectively. We identified 161 codes, which were categorized into three themes and 9 sub-themes. Three themes were identified as facilitators of KAP improvement among study participants: educational contents developed during pandemic and their dissemination using social media; community participation; and the empowerment of PWDs. Weak governance was mentioned as an essential barrier for KAP improvement.

Further interventions are needed to increase the knowledge and improving attitudes and practice of PWDs during the crisis. Among them, the following are in priority: strengthening the governance arrangement of rehabilitation; increasing community participation; providing support packages and their fair distribution; empowering PWDs; preparing infrastructures for tele-rehabilitation; public awareness and, if needed, informing health workers about the specific needs of PWDs and how to treat them respectfully.