Date of Conferral

4-24-2025

Date of Award

April 2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Dr. Lydia Forsythe

Abstract

Women living with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience inequities, policy imbalance, and the feeling of overwhelming unfairness from those who govern policy. This qualitative phenomenological study was developed to focus on woman living with the disability of cognitive impairments in the MS paradigm that are not discussed, inadequately measured nor treated, making it difficult for those living with the disease to remain in the workforce and gain access to healthcare. Little research exists that identifies the unmet needs of those with MS and their relationship to cognitive impairments. Due to the progression of the cognitive impairments those living with MS have difficulty navigating, applying and qualify for Social Security and healthcare benefits. The purpose of this study was to understand the perspectives of women living with the disability of MS and the barriers that exist when trying to obtain social security disability and access to healthcare. The theoretical framework for this qualitative study was based on the critical disability theory, founded upon critical theory developed in 1937. The study was guided by the research question: What are the lived experiences of women who live with cognitive impairments caused by MS and their experience with obtaining Social Security benefits and healthcare under the Affordable Care Act? Nine participants between the age of 25 and 61 provided their experiences about workplace difficulties and accessing healthcare. Data analysis consisted of verbatim transcription coding, which identified three emerging themes. The three themes that emerged related to the cognitive issues from the MS disease progression for difficulties with work compliance, the notion of an invisible disability and the effects of healthcare disparity on daily life. By gaining understanding of the challenges faced by these women, the hope for social change is that policymakers strive to improve standardized practices and processes that ease access for supportive levels of healthcare.

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