The power of community: Perspectives from women with disabilities on making healthcare journeys in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

Transport plays a crucial role in access to healthcare for women with disabilities. This study explores healthcare transport access for women with disabilities in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, analysing community-supported transport and commercial transport alternatives in shifting from collective dependency to a transactional nature. However, a conversation about the role of the community remains unnoticed, especially in addressing the healthcare transport gap. Through qualitative methods (go-along interviews, traditional interviews, and photo-elicitation) with 32 participants, the findings revealed the impact of community engagement in providing transport, the participants' contributions to sustaining reciprocal relationships with their communities, and the decision to opt for alternatives for various reasons. While community-driven transport programmes offer critical support, it is often unreliable and burdened by social biases and obligations, fostering a sense of “social debt.”. This drives women towards commercial services for greater independence. This study calls for inclusive transport policies that consider the perspectives of the relationship between community dynamics, mobility behaviours, and inclusive transport planning for accessibility and independence while preserving social cohesion.