Barriers to the provision of mobility assistive technology in Saudi Arabian healthcare: a mixed-methods study using the consolidated framework for implementation research

Purpose: Mobility-related disabilities are the most prevalent disabilities in Saudi Arabia, significantly affecting quality of life. While mobility-assistive technologies (MATs) help mitigate impairments, unmet needs persist with a critical knowledge gap regarding barriers to their provision. This study investigated the barriers to the provision of MAT in the healthcare system of Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods: This mixed methods study combined a cross-sectional survey with a qualitative embedded multiple case study across three public hospitals in two Saudi regions. The survey assessed MAT availability among 67 stakeholders and facilitated recruitment for the qualitative investigation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 33 participants (healthcare professionals [HCPs], managers and leaders), and six policy documents were analysed. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) guided data collection and analysis.

Results: The survey demonstrated that, while basic MATs were generally accessible, advanced devices were not and there were substantial regional disparities. The qualitative analysis identified 52 barriers across all CFIR domains, including dependence on imported devices, high costs and procurement delays, restrictive policies and regulatory ambiguities, insufficient professional healthcare training, inadequate strategic planning and clinical leadership, infrastructural constraints and sociocultural factors that influence patient acceptance.

Conclusions: This study is the first comprehensive investigation of barriers to MAT provision in Saudi Arabia. These findings provide policymakers and practitioners with an evidence-based foundation for designing contextually relevant implementation strategies to enhance equitable MAT provision.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

Rehabilitation professionals require targeted education on MAT assessment and prescription to address identified knowledge gaps.

Culturally sensitive education strategies are needed to address stigma regarding device use.

Clear protocols defining roles and responsibilities across rehabilitation, administrative and procurement departments are essential to reduce coordination delays in MAT provision.

Comprehensive services encompassing assessment, environmental evaluation, patient training and maintenance support are needed.