The effect of poverty on healthcare-seeking behavior in Gombe State
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study:
Healthcare-seeking behavior is a critical determinant of health outcomes, and poverty plays a significant role in shaping these behaviors. In Gombe State, economic constraints often compel individuals to delay or forgo seeking medical care, resulting in worsened health conditions and increased disease burden. Poverty restricts access to healthcare by limiting the financial resources available for transportation, consultation fees, medications, and diagnostic tests (Okeke, 2023). In addition, individuals living in poverty are more likely to prioritize immediate survival needs over preventive healthcare, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
In Gombe State, various socio-cultural factors further influence healthcare-seeking behavior. Limited education and awareness about available healthcare services, coupled with mistrust of formal medical systems, contribute to a reliance on traditional remedies and self-medication. The situation is exacerbated in rural areas, where healthcare facilities are sparse and often under-resourced. These challenges lead to a cycle of poor health outcomes, where delayed or inadequate treatment results in more severe illness and increased healthcare costs in the long term (Aminu, 2024).
Government and non-governmental initiatives have attempted to improve healthcare access through subsidized services and community outreach programs. However, the impact of these interventions is often mitigated by the underlying economic hardships faced by the population. Understanding how poverty affects healthcare-seeking behavior is essential for designing targeted strategies that can improve access and encourage timely utilization of healthcare services (Fatima, 2025). This study aims to assess the effect of poverty on healthcare-seeking behavior in Gombe State by examining the barriers faced by low-income households and the resulting health outcomes.
Statement of the Problem :
In Gombe State, poverty significantly impedes healthcare-seeking behavior, resulting in delayed or inadequate treatment and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Many residents, particularly those in rural areas, face economic barriers that prevent them from accessing timely and quality healthcare services. The financial burden associated with medical consultations, diagnostics, and treatment leads to a reliance on self-medication or traditional remedies, which are often ineffective. This situation contributes to a higher incidence of complications and preventable diseases (Ibrahim, 2023).
The persistent challenge of poverty in Gombe State is further compounded by a lack of awareness and mistrust of the formal healthcare system. Limited health education and inadequate outreach by healthcare providers mean that many individuals are unaware of the importance of early intervention. Consequently, health issues escalate to more severe stages before professional care is sought. This cycle not only increases morbidity and mortality but also places additional strain on the already limited healthcare infrastructure (Umar, 2024).
This study seeks to systematically examine the relationship between poverty and healthcare-seeking behavior in Gombe State. By identifying the key economic and socio-cultural barriers that prevent timely healthcare utilization, the research aims to provide evidence-based recommendations to improve access to medical services and promote proactive health-seeking behavior among low-income populations.
Objectives of the Study:
- To assess the influence of poverty on healthcare-seeking behavior in Gombe State.
- To identify the economic and socio-cultural barriers to timely healthcare access.
- To recommend strategies to improve healthcare utilization among impoverished populations.
Research Questions:
- How does poverty affect healthcare-seeking behavior in Gombe State?
- What are the key barriers that prevent timely access to healthcare?
- What interventions can improve healthcare utilization among low-income groups?
Research Hypotheses:
- H1: Higher poverty levels are significantly associated with delayed healthcare-seeking behavior.
- H2: Economic barriers contribute to lower utilization of formal healthcare services.
- H3: Targeted health education and subsidized services will improve healthcare-seeking behavior.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses on rural and peri-urban areas in Gombe State. Limitations include potential response bias and difficulties in quantifying socio-cultural factors.
Definitions of Terms:
- Healthcare-Seeking Behavior: The actions individuals take to obtain medical care.
- Poverty: The lack of sufficient income to meet basic needs.
- Access to Healthcare: The ability to obtain necessary medical services.
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