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Penagos-Corzo JC, Ortiz-Barrero MJ, Hernández-Ramírez R, Ochoa-Ramírez Y, González Ehlinger R, Pérez-Acosta AM. Development and psychometric properties of a self-medication behavior inventory. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1366284. [PMID: 38770255 PMCID: PMC11103005 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1366284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Self-medication is a prevalent behavior with significant health implications. Understanding its psychosocial determinants can inform preventative strategies and interventions. Methods We evaluated the psychometric properties of the Self-Medication Behavior Inventory (SMBI-9) in a binational study with 779 Colombian and Mexican participants. Concurrent validity was assessed through correlations with related inventories, and confirmatory factor analysis tested the proposed four-factor model. Results The SMBI-9 demonstrated high model fit (CFI = 0.995, TLI = 0.991) and invariance across countries. The factors-Social Influence, Attitude toward Medicine, Avoidance, and Prevention-varied significantly with knowledge of medicine, schooling, health insurance status and gender, underscoring the role of social and personal beliefs in self-medication practices. Discussion SMBI-9 emerged as a reliable tool for capturing the multifaceted nature of self-medication behaviors. Findings highlight the influence of social norms and personal attitudes, suggesting targeted approaches for behavioral interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio C. Penagos-Corzo
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de las Américas Puebla, San Andrés Cholula, Mexico
| | | | | | - Yavne Ochoa-Ramírez
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de las Américas Puebla, San Andrés Cholula, Mexico
| | | | - Andrés M. Pérez-Acosta
- Observatory of Self-medication Behavior, Psychology Programme, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
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Jenkins CL, Mills T, Grimes J, Bland C, Reavey P, Wills J, Sykes S. Involving lived experience in regional efforts to address gambling-related harms: going beyond 'window dressing' and 'tick box exercises'. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:384. [PMID: 38317155 PMCID: PMC10840217 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17939-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lived Experience (LE) involvement has been shown to improve interventions across diverse sectors. Yet LE contributions to public health approaches to address gambling-related harms remain underexplored, despite notable detrimental health and social outcomes linked to gambling. This paper analyses the potential of LE involvement in public health strategy to address gambling-related harms. It focuses on the example of a UK city-region gambling harms reduction intervention that presented multiple opportunities for LE input. METHODS Three focus groups and 33 semi-structured interviews were conducted to hear from people with and without LE who were involved in the gambling harms reduction intervention, or who had previous experience of LE-informed efforts for addressing gambling-related harms. People without LE provided reflections on the value and contributions of others' LE to their work. Data analysis combined the Framework Method with themes developed inductively (from people's accounts) and deductively (from the literature, including grey literature). RESULTS Four themes were identified: (1) personal journeys to LE involvement; (2) the value added by LE to interventions for addressing gambling-related harms; (3) emotional impacts on people with LE; and (4) collective LE and diverse lived experiences. Two figures outlining LE involvement specific to gambling harms reduction in the UK, where public health efforts aimed at addressing gambling-related harms coexist with industry-funded programmes, are proposed. CONCLUSIONS Integrating a range of LE perspectives in a public health approach to gambling harms reduction requires local access to involvement for people with LE via diverse routes that are free from stigma and present people with LE with options in how they can engage and be heard in decision-making, and how they operate in relation to industry influence. Involving LE in gambling harms reduction requires enabling people to develop the affective and critical skills necessary to navigate complex emotional journeys and a challenging commercial and policy environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine L Jenkins
- Institute of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, London, UK.
| | - Thomas Mills
- Institute of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, London, UK
| | - James Grimes
- Institute of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, London, UK
| | | | - Paula Reavey
- School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK
| | - Jane Wills
- Institute of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, London, UK
| | - Susie Sykes
- Institute of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, London, UK
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3
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Salifu Y, Almack K, Caswell G. 'Out of the frying pan into the fire': a qualitative study of the impact on masculinity for men living with advanced prostate cancer. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2023; 17:26323524231176829. [PMID: 37266393 PMCID: PMC10230602 DOI: 10.1177/26323524231176829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Studies have highlighted how advanced prostate cancer causes biographical disruption and presents challenges to masculine identities for men. This article draws on a wider study that focused on the experiences of men living with advanced prostate cancer and their caregivers. Although men's experience of advanced illness is not overlooked in the literature, only a small body of work has taken an in-depth look at men's experiences with advanced prostate cancer and their caregivers in a non-Westernised cultural and social context. Objective To explore how advanced prostate cancer impacts on men's masculine identity from the perspective of patients and their caregivers. Methods A qualitative study of men living with advanced prostate cancer (n = 23) and family caregivers (n = 23) in Ghana. We used the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies (COREQ) as the reporting guideline. Results The findings from this study highlight profound challenges for most men to their masculine identities, from both the treatment and the symptoms of advanced prostate cancer within a non-Westernised, patriarchal society. Four main themes were developed. These were the impact on masculinity in terms of: (1) physical changes, (2) sexual ability, (3) socio-economic roles and (4) expressing emotions. Changes in physical appearance, feeling belittled, having no active sexual life and the inability to continue acting as provider and protector of the family made some men describe their situation as one of moving out of the 'frying pan into the fire'. Conclusion This study revealed the impact of advanced prostate cancer on masculine identity. These narratives add a new dimension to what is already known about the impacts on men's masculine identities when dealing with advanced prostate cancer. This knowledge can help improve the care provided to men with advanced prostate cancer with emphasis on the cultures, beliefs and aspirations of these men and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathryn Almack
- Professor of Family Lives and Care, Centre for
Future Societies Research Communities, Young People and Family Lives Centre
for Research in Public Health and Community Care, School of Health and
Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Glenys Caswell
- Independent Social Researcher and Death Studies
Scholar, Nottigham, UK
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Bandeira CLJ, Arboit J, Honnef F, Silva EBD, Andrade AD, Costa MCD. Violence in rural areas against disabled people from the perspective of their families. Rev Bras Enferm 2023; 76Suppl 2:e20220404. [PMID: 37255188 DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2022-0404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES to know the violence spoken and felt by disabled people, living in rural areas, from the perspective of their families. METHODS a descriptive-exploratory and qualitative study, carried out in four municipalities in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Twelve family members who lived with disabled people in rural areas participated. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic content analysis. RESULTS disabled people, living in rural areas, experienced physical, psychological and sexual violence, perpetrated by family members, colleagues, community members and health professionals. Adaptations were mentioned in family dynamics for the care of disabled people, social, financial and leisure impacts, and challenges in access and accessibility to education and health services. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS violence against this population manifests itself in a reality with socioeconomic and family particularities, marked by exclusion, disrespect and denial of rights and access to fundamental goods and services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jaqueline Arboit
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria. Palmeira das Missões, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Honnef
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria. Palmeira das Missões, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ethel Bastos da Silva
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria. Palmeira das Missões, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Andressa de Andrade
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria. Palmeira das Missões, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Marta Cocco da Costa
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria. Palmeira das Missões, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Bentum-Micah G, Cai L, Ahoto AT. Observation of covid-19 safety protocols by persons with chronic health conditions in Ghana: The influence of health belief model. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2023; 236:103928. [PMID: 37121072 PMCID: PMC10133890 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2023.103928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Covid-19 has brought distortion to health delivery globally and made it challenging to seek healthcare, but persons with chronic health conditions who require continuous medical attention have suffered the most as all attention at the medical front was directed to covid-19 related issues. The study explores how the five primary constructs of the health belief model were used to drive adherence to covid-19 preventive protocols among persons with chronic health conditions in Ghana. A quantitative technique was used for data collection and analyses. SPSS version 21 and AMOS version 21 were used to analyze data. Hierarchical regression from SPSS were used to examine the influences of health belief model constructs on chronic patients' adherence to covid-19 preventive protocols. The study's finding indicates that perceived susceptibility, severity, and self-efficacy influence adherence to covid-19 protocols among persons with chronic conditions. While perceived benefits and perceived barriers though they have negative and positive influences on adherence, they were not statistically significant. Perceived self-efficacy has a negative influence on the perceived barrier and a positive influence on perceived benefit. Gender has positive influence on Perceived susceptibility. The study's outcome indicated that persons with chronic health conditions need special arrangements to ease their access to healthcare during outbreaks. Hence, public health professionals need to educate chronic patients on how to practice the covid-19 preventive protocols and support them with covid-19 preventive materials to increase their self-efficacy to adhere to covid-19 protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lianya Cai
- College of Teacher Education, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004, PR China.
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6
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Agbelie CM. Health system access challenges of people with disabilities increased during Covid-19 pandemic. Disabil Health J 2023:101446. [PMID: 36804186 PMCID: PMC9877151 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2023.101446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with disabilities (PWDs) have unequal access to health services compared with the general population and this disparity is worsening during the Covid-19 pandemic. Evidence supports the importance of policy development and legislation for addressing the unmet health needs of PWDs, but little is known about the impact of these efforts in Ghana. OBJECTIVE This study examined health system experiences of PWDs in Ghana within the context of existing disability legislation and related policies prior to and during the Covid-19 pandemic. METHODS Narrative analysis of data from qualitative research approaches of focus group discussions, semi-structured interviews, and participant observations were used to examine the experiences of fifty-five PWDs, four staff of the Department of Social Welfare, and six leaders of disability-focused non-governmental organizations in Ghana. RESULTS Structural and system barriers hinder PWDs access to health services. Bureaucratic bottlenecks hinder PWDs access to Ghana's free health insurance policy and health workers' disability stigma impedes accessibility to health services. CONCLUSIONS Access barriers and disability stigma increased accessibility challenges for PWDs in Ghana's health system during the Covid-19 pandemic. My findings support the need for increased efforts toward making Ghana's health system more accessible to address health disparities experienced by PWDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris-Mike Agbelie
- College of Arts and Sciences, Whitworth University, Spokane, United States.
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Adinkrah E, Najand B, Rahmani A, Maharlouei N, Ekwegh T, Cobb S, Zare H. Social Determinants of Mental, Physical, and Oral Health of Middle-Aged and Older African Americans in South Los Angeles. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16765. [PMID: 36554645 PMCID: PMC9779480 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing body of research suggests that financial difficulties could weaken the protective effects of socioeconomic status (SES) indicators, including education and income, on the health status of marginalized communities, such as African Americans. AIM We investigated the separate and joint effects of education, income, and financial difficulties on mental, physical, and oral self-rated health (SRH) outcomes in African American middle-aged and older adults. METHODS This cross-sectional study enrolled 150 middle-aged and older African Americans residing in South Los Angeles. Data on demographic factors (age and gender), socioeconomic characteristics (education, income, and financial difficulties), and self-rated health (mental, physical, and oral health) were collected. Three linear regression models were used to analyze the data. RESULTS Higher education and income were associated with a lower level of financial strain in a bivariate analysis. However, according to multivariable models, only financial difficulties were associated with poor mental, physical, and oral health. As similar patterns emerged for all three health outcomes, the risk associated with financial difficulties seems robust. CONCLUSIONS According to our multivariable models, financial strain is a more salient social determinant of health within African American communities than education and income in economically constrained urban environments such as South Los Angeles. While education and income lose some protective effects, financial strain continues to deteriorate the health of African American communities across domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Adinkrah
- Department of Family Medicine, Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Babak Najand
- Marginalization-Related Diminished Returns (MDRs) Center, Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Arash Rahmani
- Marginalization-Related Diminished Returns (MDRs) Center, Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Najmeh Maharlouei
- Marginalization-Related Diminished Returns (MDRs) Center, Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Tavonia Ekwegh
- Mervyn M. Dymally School of Nursing, Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Sharon Cobb
- Mervyn M. Dymally School of Nursing, Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
| | - Hossein Zare
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- School of Business, University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC), Adelphi, Garden City, NY 20783, USA
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8
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Dassah E, Aldersey HM, McColl MA, Davison C. Health care providers’ and persons with disabilities’ recommendations for improving access to primary health care services in rural northern Ghana: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274163. [PMID: 36112654 PMCID: PMC9481012 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In Ghana, many persons with physical disabilities are members of populations who face health disparities including physical, structural, knowledge, attitudinal and financial barriers to various health care services compared to those without disabilities. However, there is limited evidence on how to improve access to primary health care services for persons with physical disabilities. This study aimed to understand persons with physical disabilities’ experiences and health care providers’ perspectives for improving access to primary health care for persons with disabilities in rural Ghana. We used a qualitative approach and interviewed 33 persons with physical disabilities and health care providers, and thematically analysed data from in-depth interviews. We identified 4 major themes. According to the participants, health care could be more accessible by: i) Making it more affordable; ii) Increasing the availability of providers and services; iii) Providing more education about system navigation; and iv) Improving access to disability friendly health facilities and equipment. Participants’ recommendations were nested in the areas of policy and practice modifications. Policy makers need to consider supporting persons with physical disabilities who cannot afford non-medical services (i.e., cost of transportation). In terms of practice, the provision of education and training related to physical disability issues should be extended to both clinical and nonclinical health workers for better client centered care. There is an urgent need for policy makers and relevant key stakeholders to include persons with physical disabilities in designing and implementing policies and programs to ensure that they are meeting their needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebenezer Dassah
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- * E-mail:
| | - Heather M. Aldersey
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mary Ann McColl
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Colleen Davison
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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9
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Access to Services from Persons with Disabilities in Afghanistan: Is Community Based Rehabilitation Making a Difference? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19106341. [PMID: 35627880 PMCID: PMC9142103 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19106341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), ratified in 2006, states that the achievement of equal rights, empowerment, and social inclusion of people with disabilities requires comprehensive rehabilitation services involving educational, social, economic, and medical interventions, all dimensions of the World Health Organization Community based rehabilitation (CBR) matrix. CBR programs aim at achieving those goals. In the present study, we investigated whether a large scale CBR program is improving access to multiple services (namely physical therapy, assistive technology, education, employment, advocacy, and community awareness) and providing satisfactions (by measuring the reduction in unmet needs) of Afghans with disabilities. We enrolled in the study 1861 newly recruited CBR participants with disabilities from 169 villages between July 2012 and December 2013, and 1132 controls screened with disabilities randomly selected with a two-stage process within 6000 households from 100 villages in the same provinces as the CBR but outside its catchment area. Using propensity score matching (PSM) and difference in difference analysis, we estimated the differences in accessing services. There were statistically significant differences between participants and controls on the access of available services between the baseline and endline. Using PSM we also found that needs were more often met among CBR participants compared to the controls. Our study indicates that a CBR program may be an effective way to provide services for persons with disabilities even in a conflict context such as Afghanistan. It contributes to addressing the longstanding question whether CBR can actually improve the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.
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Abdullah A, Cudjoe E, Frederico M, Jordan LP, Chiu MYL, Asamoah E, Emery CR. Filicide as a cultural practice in Ghana: The qualitative understanding of a family tragedy and its implications for child protection practice. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 127:105580. [PMID: 35255341 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contrary to evidence from the Western literature, cases of filicide in Ghana are mostly unreported because they are rooted in cultural practices and hidden from the general public. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to explore the cultural context of filicide in a rural community. Particularly, to provide an understanding of the spirit child (SC) phenomenon, how the killing of a SC is performed and to provide a general understanding of filicide within a particular context. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Four relatives of a family that engaged in a filicide incident took part in the study. The interviews were conducted in a rural community in Ghana where the incident occurred. METHODS Short written narratives were used to explore the experiences and perceptions of relatives whose family engaged in filicide. RESULTS Children with severe deformities are likely to be associated with matters of divinity which gives way for the conceptualization of the SC and its attendant filicide. The findings highlight the critical role of traditional healers in rural communities and the consequences of strong community beliefs and expectations that influence parents to commit filicide. CONCLUSION The study provides directions for child protection workers to address the stigma parents face for having children with severe deformities and to provide education on child welfare legislation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alhassan Abdullah
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, HKU Centennial Campus, Hong Kong; Department of Sociology, Haverford College, Haverford, PA, USA.
| | - Ebenezer Cudjoe
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Margarita Frederico
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Social Work and Social Policy, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, College of Science, Health and Engineering La Trobe University, Bundoora 3086, Australia.
| | - Lucy P Jordan
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, HKU Centennial Campus, Hong Kong.
| | | | - Edward Asamoah
- Department of Sociology and Social Work, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | - Clifton R Emery
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, HKU Centennial Campus, Hong Kong.
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Using locational data in a novel mixed-methods sequence design: Identifying critical health care barriers for people with disabilities in Malawi. Soc Sci Med 2021; 283:114127. [PMID: 34216883 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The primary aim of this study was to determine which health care barriers were most important for people with disabilities in Malawi. To accomplish this, we devised a sequential mixed-methods research design that integrated locational survey data and qualitative data from field studies. Our secondary aim was to evaluate this research design not only as a design-solution to our particular research objective, but as a tool with more general applicability within social sciences. Malawi has one of the most underserved health service populations in the world with chronic resource shortages and long travel distances where people with disabilities are at a particular disadvantage. Nevertheless, our results show that even in a resource scarce society such as Malawi it is the interpersonal relationships between patients and health service providers that has the largest impact on the perception of access among patients. Our results also suggest that the sequential mixed-methods design is effective in guiding researchers towards models with strong specifications.
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Pham TV, Koirala R, Wainberg ML, Kohrt BA. Reassessing the Mental Health Treatment Gap: What Happens if We Include the Impact of Traditional Healing on Mental Illness? Community Ment Health J 2021; 57:777-791. [PMID: 32894398 PMCID: PMC7936992 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-020-00705-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In this Fresh Focus, we reassess what the mental health treatment gap may mean if we consider the role of traditional healing. Based on systematic reviews, patients can use traditional healers and qualitatively report improvement from general psychological distress and symptom reduction for common mental disorders. Given these clinical implications, some high-income countries have scaled up research into traditional healing practices, while at the same time in low-and middle-income countries, where the use of traditional healers is nearly ubiquitous, considerably less research funding has studied or capitalized on this phenomena. The World Health Organization 2003-2020 Mental Health Action Plan called for government health programs to include traditional and faith healers as treatment resources to combat the low- and middle-income country treatment gap. Reflection on the work which emerged during the course of this Mental Health Action Plan revealed areas for improvement. As we embark on the next Mental Health Action Plan, we offer lessons-learned for exploring potential relationships and collaborations between traditional healing and biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony V Pham
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, 2213 Elba Street, Durham, NC, 27705, USA.
- Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Drive, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO) Nepal, Baluwatar, Kathmandu, 44616, Nepal.
| | - Rishav Koirala
- University of Oslo, Problemveien 7, 0315, Oslo, Norway
- Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO) Nepal, Baluwatar, Kathmandu, 44616, Nepal
- Brain and Neuroscience Center Nepal, Krishna Dhara Marg, Kathmandu, 44600, Nepal
| | - Milton L Wainberg
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Brandon A Kohrt
- Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Drive, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
- Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO) Nepal, Baluwatar, Kathmandu, 44616, Nepal
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2120 L Street, NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC, 20037, USA
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Adongo CA, Amenumey EK, Kumi-Kyereme A, Dubé E. Beyond fragmentary: A proposed measure for travel vaccination concerns. TOURISM MANAGEMENT 2021; 83:104180. [PMID: 32952254 PMCID: PMC7487078 DOI: 10.1016/j.tourman.2020.104180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The travel medicine literature points to travelers' concerns as significant promoters of their under-vaccinations. Therefore, this study researches the hitherto understudied concept of vaccination concern and its theoretical scope in the international travel space. It attempts a conceptualization of the concept by delimiting its theoretical scope and proposes a measure for it. An exploratory sequential mixed-methods design was used to conduct four interlocking studies using data from a netnography, field interviews, and surveys among varied international travelers. A scale with six dimensions, comprising safety, efficacy, cost, time, access, and autonomy concerns were revealed. The scale significantly explained mainstream and segments-based tourists' uptake attitudes and behavior for their eligible vaccines. The findings suggest that anti-travel vax sentiments and public vax sentiments despite conceptually similar are considerably distinct. The broad nature of the scale and its prediction of travelers' vaccine uptake make it clinically relevant for tracking and resolving concerns for increased vaccine uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Atanga Adongo
- College of Humanities and Legal Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Edem Kwesi Amenumey
- College of Humanities and Legal Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Akwasi Kumi-Kyereme
- College of Humanities and Legal Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Eve Dubé
- Quebec National Institute of Public Health, Research Center of the CHU de Quebec, Canada
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Medical, transportation and spiritual out-of-pocket health expenditure on outpatient and inpatient visits in Bhutan. Soc Sci Med 2021; 273:113780. [PMID: 33647847 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.113780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the determinants of out-of-pocket health expenditure (OOP) is important for achieving and sustaining universal health coverage, as well as ensuring that no one is left behind. Focusing on major types of spending, including healthcare-related transportation and spiritual expenses, this study analyses OOP on outpatient and inpatient visits in Bhutan, using a two-part model and data from the nationally representative 2017 Bhutan Living Standards Survey. While OOP based on standard estimates is relatively low in Bhutan, the survey data show that expenses for healthcare-related transportation and spiritual ceremonies are substantive and by far exceed other components of OOP. Demographic, socio-economic, geographic and morbidity-related factors are found to affect the probability of incurring medical, transportation and spiritual OOP, as well as amounts spent. Disaggregating healthcare-related spending into its key components further reveals that living in rural areas increases the probability of incurring expenses for transportation and spiritual ceremonies, but decreases the odds of experiencing positive medical expenditure. Monthly equivalised household expenditure, functional disability, frequency of visits and length of stay are positively associated with total OOP, especially for transportation and spiritual expenses. Going to a public primary healthcare provider for the first outpatient visit, on the other hand, significantly decreases likelihood and amount of medical, transportation and spiritual OOP. These key results highlight the importance of understanding context-specific drivers of healthcare-related spending. In Bhutan, the financial burden particularly impacts respondents in rural areas and those with higher needs for healthcare services. A clear implication of the findings is that primary care and gatekeeping mechanisms need to be strengthened, especially considering that cost pressures have been growing which could lead to higher OOP in the future. Moreover, closer examination of the role of spiritual practices in the provision of health services is needed.
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Akpa OM, Okekunle AP, Ovbiagele B, Sarfo FS, Akinyemi RO, Akpalu A, Wahab KW, Komolafe M, Obiako R, Owolabi LF, Ogbole G, Fawale B, Fakunle A, Asaleye CM, Akisanya CO, Hamisu DA, Ogunjimi L, Adeoye A, Ogah O, Lackland D, Uvere EO, Faniyan MM, Asowata OJ, Adeleye O, Aridegbe M, Olunuga T, Yahaya IS, Olaleye A, Calys-Tagoe B, Owolabi MO. Factors associated with hypertension among stroke-free indigenous Africans: Findings from the SIREN study. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich) 2021; 23:773-784. [PMID: 33484599 PMCID: PMC8263562 DOI: 10.1111/jch.14183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Hypertension is one of the most important risk factors for stroke and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) globally. Understanding risk factors for hypertension among individuals with matching characteristics with stroke patients may inform primordial/primary prevention of hypertension and stroke among them. This study identified the risk factors for hypertension among community-dwelling stroke-free population in Ghana and Nigeria. Data for 4267 community-dwelling stroke-free controls subjects in the Stroke Investigative Research and Education Network (SIREN) study in Nigeria and Ghana were used. Participants were comprehensively assessed for sociodemographic, lifestyle and metabolic factors using standard methods. Hypertension was defined as a previous diagnosis by a health professional or use of an anti-hypertensive drug or mean systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of hypertension and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) at p < .05. Overall, 56.7% of the participants were hypertensive with a higher proportion among respondents aged ≥60 years (53.0%). Factors including physical inactivity (aOR: 9.09; 95% CI: 4.03 to 20.53, p < .0001), diabetes (aOR: 2.70; CI: 1.91 to 3.82, p < .0001), being ≥60 years (aOR: 2.22; 95% CI: 1.78 to 2.77, p < .0001), and family history of CVD (aOR 2.02; CI: 1.59 to 2.56, p < .0001) were associated with increased aOR of hypertension. Lifestyle factors were associated with hypertension in the current population of community-dwelling stroke-free controls in west Africa. Community-oriented interventions to address sedentary lifestyles may benefit this population and reduce/prevent hypertension and stroke among them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onoja M Akpa
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Center for Genomic and Precision Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Preventive Cardiology Research Unit, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Akinkunmi P Okekunle
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,The Postgraduate College, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Bruce Ovbiagele
- School of Medicine, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San-Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Fred S Sarfo
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Rufus O Akinyemi
- Center for Genomic and Precision Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Department of Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria.,Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Albert Akpalu
- Department of Community Health, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kolawole W Wahab
- Department of Medicine, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Morenikeji Komolafe
- Department of Medicine, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Reginald Obiako
- Department of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Lukman F Owolabi
- Department of Medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Godwin Ogbole
- Department of Radiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Bimbo Fawale
- Department of Medicine, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Adekunle Fakunle
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Christianah M Asaleye
- Department of Medicine, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Luqman Ogunjimi
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Obafemi Awolowo College of Health Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Shagamu, Nigeria
| | - Abiodun Adeoye
- Center for Genomic and Precision Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Okechukwu Ogah
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Dan Lackland
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Ezinne O Uvere
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Osahon J Asowata
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Mayowa Aridegbe
- Department of Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Taiwo Olunuga
- Department of Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Isah S Yahaya
- Department of Medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Adeniji Olaleye
- Department of Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Benedict Calys-Tagoe
- Department of Community Health, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Mayowa O Owolabi
- Center for Genomic and Precision Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Salifu Y, Almack K, Caswell G. 'My wife is my doctor at home': A qualitative study exploring the challenges of home-based palliative care in a resource-poor setting. Palliat Med 2021; 35:97-108. [PMID: 32945248 PMCID: PMC7797613 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320951107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family caregiving is common globally, but when a family member needs palliative and end-of-life care, this requires knowledge and expertise in dealing with symptoms, medication, and treatment side effects. Caring for a family member with advanced prostate cancer in the home presents practical and emotional challenges, especially in resource-poor contexts, where there are increasing palliative cases without adequate palliative care institutions. AIM The study explored palliative and end-of-life care experiences of family caregivers and patients living at home in a resource-poor context in Ghana. DESIGN This is a qualitative study using thematic analysis of face-to-face interviews at two-time points. PARTICIPANTS Men living with advanced prostate cancer (n = 23), family caregivers (n = 23), healthcare professionals (n = 12). FINDINGS Men with advanced prostate cancer face complex issues, including lack of access to professional care and a lack of resources for homecare. Family caregivers do not have easy access to professional support; they often have limited knowledge of disease progression. Patients have inadequate access to medication and other practical resources for homecare. Caregivers may be overburdened and perform the role of the patient's 'doctor' at home-assessing patient's symptoms, administering drugs, and providing hands-on care. CONCLUSION Home-based care is promoted as an ideal and cost-effective model of care, particularly in Westernised palliative care models. However, in resource-poor contexts, there are significant challenges associated with the implementation of this model. This study revealed the scale of challenges family caregivers, who lack basic training on aspects of caring, face in providing home care unsupported by healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yakubu Salifu
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, Lancashire, UK
| | - Kathryn Almack
- Communities, Young People and Family Lives, Centre for Research in Public Health and Community Care, School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Glenys Caswell
- Nottingham Centre for the Advancement of Research into Supportive, Palliative and End of Life Care, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Hashemi G, Wickenden M, Bright T, Kuper H. Barriers to accessing primary healthcare services for people with disabilities in low and middle-income countries, a Meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Disabil Rehabil 2020; 44:1207-1220. [PMID: 32956610 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1817984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
METHODS Six electronic databases were searched for relevant studies from 2000 to 2019. Forty-one eligible studies were identified. RESULTS Findings suggest that the people with disabilities' choice to seek healthcare services or not, as well as the quality of intervention provided by primary healthcare providers, are influenced by three types of barriers: cultural beliefs or attitudinal barriers, informational barriers, and practical or logistical barriers. CONCLUSION In order to achieve full health coverage at acceptable quality for people with disabilities, it is necessary not only to consider the different barriers, but also their combined effect on people with disabilities and their households. It is only then that more nuanced and effective interventions to improve access to primary healthcare, systematically addressing barriers, can be designed and implemented.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONPeople with disabilities in both high income and low- and middle-income country settings are more likely to experience poorer general health than people without disabilities.Barriers to accessing primary healthcare services for people with disabilities result from a complex and dynamic interacting system between attitudinal and belief system barriers, informational barriers, and practical and logistical barriers.Given primary healthcare is often the initial point of contact for referral to specialty care and rehabilitation services, it is crucial for people with disabilities to access primary healthcare services in order to get appropriate referrals for such services, specifically rehabilitation as appropriate.To achieve full health coverage at acceptable quality for people with disabilities, starting with primary healthcare, it is necessary for healthcare stakeholders, including rehabilitation professionals, to consider the combined and cumulative effects of the various barriers to healthcare on people with disabilities and their families and develop an understanding of how healthcare decisions are made by people with disabilities at the personal and the household level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goli Hashemi
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,Department of Occupational Therapy, Samuel Merritt University, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Mary Wickenden
- Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Tess Bright
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Hannah Kuper
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Nuri RP, Aldersey HM, Ghahari S, Huque AS. Experience of families in accessing government-led support for children with disabilities in Bangladesh. Disabil Rehabil 2020; 44:1354-1366. [DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1804000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Setareh Ghahari
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
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Zeni D, Costa MCD, Silva EBD, Honnef F, Arboit J, Colomé ICDS. Health care for people with disabilities in a rural setting under the perspective of community agents. Rev Bras Enferm 2020; 73:e20190204. [PMID: 32785458 DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2019-0204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand how health care for people with disabilities in rural settings occurs according to the perspective of Community Health Agents. METHODS Qualitative approach study in which 13 Community Health Agents participated. Data collection took place through semi-structured interviews. The data were systematized and analyzed by Minayo's content analysis. RESULTS Some weaknesses and barriers make people with disabilities living in rural settings, invisible and distant from comprehensive and equitable health care. The weaknesses are related to unprepared CHAs and the inefficient qualifications to serve this population. The barriers to seeking comprehensive care are particularly physical, economic, geographical, and infrastructural. Final Considerations: It is imperative to give visibility to people with disabilities in the rural context, considering the singularities of this place, in order to enhance sensitive and welcoming care provided by health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiane Zeni
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Palmeira das Missões, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | | | - Fernanda Honnef
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Arboit
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Assari S, Cobb S, Saqib M, Bazargan M. Economic Strain Deteriorates While Education Fails to Protect Black Older Adults Against Depressive Symptoms, Pain, Self-rated Health, Chronic Disease, and Sick Days. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 4:49-62. [PMID: 32724902 DOI: 10.29245/2578-2959/2020/2.1203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Background A large body of empirical evidence on Minorities' Diminished Returns (MDRs) suggests that educational attainment shows smaller health effects for Blacks compared to Whites. At the same time, economic strain may operate as a risk factor for a wide range of undesired mental and physical health outcomes in Black communities. Aim The current study investigated the combined effects of education and economic strain on the following five health outcomes in Black older adults in underserved areas of South Los Angeles: depressive symptoms, number of chronic diseases, pain intensity, self-rated health, and sick days. Methods This cross-sectional study included 619 Black older adults residing in South Los Angeles. Data on demographic factors (age and gender), socioeconomic characteristics, economic strain, health insurance, living arrangement, marital status, health behaviors, depressive symptoms, pain intensity, number of chronic diseases, sick days, and self-rated health were collected. Five linear regressions were used to analyze the data. Results Although high education was associated with less economic strain, it was the economic strain, not educational attainment, which was universally associated with depressive symptoms, pain intensity, self-rated health, chronic diseases, and sick days, independent of covariates. Similar patterns emerged for all health outcomes suggesting that the risk associated with economic strain and lack of health gain due to educational attainment are both robust and independent of type of health outcome. Conclusion In economically constrained urban environments, economic strain is a more salient social determinant of health of Black older adults than educational attainment. While education loses some of its protective effects, economic strain deteriorates health of Black population across domains. There is a need for bold economic and social policies that increase access of Black communities to cash at times of emergency. There is also a need to improve the education quality in the Black communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Departments of Family Medicine, Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science
| | - Sharon Cobb
- School of Nursing, Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mohammed Saqib
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Mohsen Bazargan
- Departments of Family Medicine, Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science.,Departments of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Healthcare providers' perspectives of providing primary healthcare services to persons with physical disabilities in rural Ghana. Prim Health Care Res Dev 2019; 20:e108. [PMID: 32799998 PMCID: PMC6609974 DOI: 10.1017/s1463423619000495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: A growing body of evidence has shown that persons with physical disabilities experience substantial barriers in accessing primary healthcare (PHC) services in rural areas. Negative attitudes from healthcare providers and inaccessible healthcare facilities and equipment are common experiences that negatively affect access to quality healthcare for persons with physical disabilities. However, there is limited research that explores this issue from the perspectives of healthcare providers. This qualitative study explores the perspectives of healthcare providers in delivering PHC services to persons with physical disabilities in rural Ghana. Understanding healthcare providers’ perspectives could help leverage previous findings from clients’ experiences to more fully inform the development of specific and actionable research and interventions to improve healthcare delivery for disabled people. Methods: We conducted in-depth interviews with 15 healthcare providers and used thematic analysis to analyze the data. Results: Participants reported their perspectives in three major themes: challenges in providing healthcare (eg, limited availability of drugs and medical equipment, limited healthcare providers, financial constraints, and inaccessible facilities and equipment); strategies in navigating the challenges (eg, improvising techniques and employing professional values, referring clients, and providing financial assistance to clients); and positive experience in providing healthcare (eg, feeling rewarded and appreciated). Conclusion: The findings reinforce the need to consider the availability of rehabilitation professionals and services to address the specific healthcare needs of disabled people at the PHC level in Ghana. The findings also point to a need for further research on the perspectives of healthcare policymakers about how to navigate the systemic barriers encountered by providers in providing care to persons with physical disabilities in rural Ghana in particular, and other similar rural areas.
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