‘What Matters, Doctor?’ A Qualitative and Inclusive Study of the Experience of Mainstream Healthcare Among People With Intellectual Disabilities in Belgium

BACKGROUND: This study investigates the healthcare needs and experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities, focusing on identifying areas for improvement. Its innovation lies in including individuals with intellectual disabilities as co-researchers in the research process. METHOD: Thematic analysis was performed on five focus groups with 30 participants, exploring access to healthcare. Three co-researchers played active roles in reviewing the interview, recruitment, facilitation and co-analysis of results. RESULTS: Three types of specific needs emerged: communication, relational and support needs, as well as challenges in empowerment and shortcomings in the skills of professionals. CONCLUSIONS: Intervention programmes aimed at training doctors and healthcare professionals should consider the specific difficulties and needs of people with intellectual disability, and their input should be prioritised in the design of these interventions.