Factors Hindering Access to Healthcare Services in Peri-Urban Communities in Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

Access to healthcare is a major problem for diverse reasons in Africa. This study developed a conceptual model to address the factors that hinder patients from accessing and navigating healthcare services in peri-urban communities in Johannesburg, South Africa. A mixed methods research strategy was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Semi-structured interviews and field notes were used for qualitative data collection, while hand-delivered questionnaires were used for collecting quantitative data. Outpatients, administration, and medical personnel that worked at various research sites constituted the sample. The findings identified poor infrastructure, poverty and geographical location as factors hindering healthcare access. Additionally, the study revealed that healthcare policies contributed to the marginalisation of poor communities and recommended a review of such policies to involve various stakeholders. The planned implementation of National Health Insurance and the need for a comprehensive social security system were also recommended as strategies to address the hindrances. Finally, a conceptual model was developed to drive behavioural change in the public and private healthcare systems, leading to affordable and sustainable improvement in accessing, navigating, and using healthcare services.