Perceived Quality of Care and Healthcare-Seeking Behaviors for Childhood Illnesses in Larkana, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Quality Perceptions and Child Healthcare Utilization in Larkana
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62807/jowach.v1i3.2024.5-10Keywords:
Child health, healthcare quality, care-seeking behavior, Pakistan, healthcare utilizationAbstract
Background: Despite national improvements, Larkana district in Pakistan faces high under-five child mortality. This study examines the relationship between perceived quality of healthcare and care-seeking behaviors for childhood illnesses in Larkana.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to April 2021, involving 390 parents/guardians of children under five visiting outpatient departments in Larkana hospitals. Semi-structured interviews assessed sociodemographics, perceived quality of care, and healthcare-seeking patterns. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyzed associations between perceived quality and care utilization.
Results: Low perceived quality of care was significantly associated with reduced formal healthcare utilization for childhood illnesses (OR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.28-0.63, p<0.001). Maternal education level and distance to healthcare facilities were significant moderating factors. 36% of respondents preferred traditional healers as first-line care, correlating with lower perceived quality scores.
Conclusions: Negative perceptions of healthcare quality significantly impact care-seeking behaviors for childhood illnesses in Larkana. Interventions targeting quality improvement and community education may enhance child healthcare utilization and outcomes.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Saqib Nabi Khuhro, Muhammad Bilal Siddiqui
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