Health Promotion Strategies to Improve Access to Maternal Health Services for Women with Sensory Disabilities: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background: Women with sensory disabilities continue to experience inequitable access to maternal health services, particularly due to communication barriers, limited access to information, and insufficiently inclusive health systems. Health promotion strategies have been proposed to address these challenges; however, evidence regarding their effectiveness remains fragmented and has not been systematically synthesized.

Methods: This study employed a scoping review design following PRISMA-ScR and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines. Literature searches were conducted across four databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley, and Google Scholar) using Boolean operators and truncation techniques. Articles were selected based on Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) criteria. Of 2,484 identified records, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed using data charting. Study quality was assessed using JBI critical appraisal tools.

Result: Three major themes of health promotion strategies were identified: (1) inclusive communication strategies, including interpreter services and accessible communication methods; (2) strengthening health system responsiveness through training of healthcare providers and development of inclusive maternal services; and (3) utilization of adaptive digital technologies and patient empowerment. These strategies were associated with improved communication, increased health literacy, and better utilization of maternal health services. However, persistent barriers such as limited resources, lack of trained personnel, and systemic constraints continue to affect implementation.

Conclusion: Health promotion strategies play a crucial role in improving access to maternal health services for women with sensory disabilities. Effective implementation requires an integrated, system-level approach that combines inclusive communication, capacity building, and adaptive technologies to achieve equitable and sustainable maternal healthcare.