Affiliation:
1. Unit for Development in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities University of South Wales, Lower Glyntaff Campus Pontypridd South Wales UK
Abstract
AbstractBackgroundLittle is known about how health issues identified at the annual health check (AHC) are followed up and addressed, how participants self‐manage their health in between AHCs, and what support they receive. This research aimed to explore this.MethodsPeople with intellectual disabilities (n = 12), and/or their supporters residing in Wales, were interviewed following their AHC and again at 6 and 11 months. A recurrent cross‐sectional thematic analysis was undertaken.ResultsFive main themes emerged from interview one: going for a health check, issues identified, and actions taken, supporting the self‐management of health, the personal context, and addressing health inequities. Four main themes emerged from follow‐up interviews: follow‐up, supporting the self‐management of health, the need for reasonably adjusted health services, and going for another health check.ConclusionA broader system of support around the AHC is required if people are to achieve or maintain the best possible health.