Being a disabled woman in a global pandemic: a focus group study in the United States along with policy recommendations

This study sheds light on the problems and strengths of disabled people during the ongoing COVID pandemic, as many societies are dropping mitigation measures. Fourteen disabled women from the United States participated in virtual focus groups, and the study identified five major themes: New Challenges, Old Challenges Persist, Structural Changes to Accessibility, Coping Resources, and Learning for Future. The findings aligned with existing literature on challenges related to vaccination, mask mandates, messages regarding value of disabled lives, and the need for disabled individuals to be involved in preparedness. By taking these findings into account, policymakers have an opportunity to create a society that prioritizes justice for disabled people, even during times of crisis.