Towards a journey to quality of life among leprosy patients

This study presents a qualitative inquiry about the quality of life among leprosy patients with multiple deformities, using the face-to-face interview with the research participants as the main research instrument. A total of 16 respondents selected through theoretical sampling participated in the research study, the sampling style being dictated by the theoretical framework adopted for the study--grounded theory. Six of the main informants of the study are under custodial care of the research locale (Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital), whereas the other six are residents of the Tala community in the immediate vicinity of the hospital locale, situated in Caloocan City, Metro Manila. Four respondents for the supplementary interview are from the health care team providing services for the main informants. Among others, findings of the research revealed that the quality of life among the leprosy patients with multiple deformities is multidimensional and dynamic, as it changes across time and is shaped by various conditions including the physiological, physical, social, psychological, and economic aspects of their ordeal. Recommendations include provision of holistic care to leprosy patients during all stages of their quality of life through improved health awareness, support for healthy coping mechanisms, sustained spiritual guidance, and better opportunities to engage in occupational therapy and livelihood activities.