POTENTIAL OF LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATIONS IN KHON KAEN PROVINCE TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Abstract

               This research aimed to study the understanding of local administrative organization (LAO) personnel towards the policy supporting quality of life of people with disabilities and their potential in taking care of them. The researchers employed a multiple case study design and collected data via interviews of 14 key informants—including executive, legislative, and civil servant personnel—from five LAOs in Khon Kaen.

               The results indicated that:

               LAO personnel had the understanding about policy supporting quality of life of people with disabilities in the same direction, that is the policy was determined to solve problems of people with disabilities and to improve their quality of life. Each of the five LAOs have implemented policies and provided public services that to comply with problems of the disabled in its area. There were career support, health promotion activities, and knowledge trainings. However, these services still have various problems and obstacles in terms of lack of budget and incompetent personnel. The government should, therefore, allocate budget and sufficient specialized personnel for each area in order to allow the local to effectively implement policy that promote quality of life of people with disabilities.