Background

Health-seeking behavior refers to actions undertaken by individuals when they perceive a health problem and seek appropriate remedies. Rural populations often face significant barriers in accessing healthcare services due to geographical, socioeconomic, cultural, and infrastructural limitations. Understanding healthcare utilization patterns among rural communities is essential for improving healthcare delivery and achieving universal health coverage.

Objective

To assess health-seeking behavior among rural populations and identify factors influencing healthcare utilization.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,200 rural residents from five districts between January and December 2024. Data were collected through structured questionnaires assessing demographic characteristics, healthcare preferences, accessibility, healthcare expenditure, and barriers to healthcare utilization. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression.

Results

Among 1,200 respondents, 68.5% sought healthcare from public facilities, 21.4% preferred private clinics, and 10.1% relied on traditional healers. Distance to healthcare facilities, education level, household income, and health awareness significantly influenced healthcare-seeking behavior (p<0.05). Delayed healthcare seeking was observed among 42.7% of participants. Financial constraints and transportation difficulties were the most commonly reported barriers.

Conclusion

Health-seeking behavior among rural populations is influenced by multiple socioeconomic and accessibility-related factors. Strengthening rural healthcare infrastructure, improving health literacy, and reducing financial barriers are critical for enhancing healthcare utilization and health outcomes.