Ndumiso Tshuma, Daniel N. Elakpa, Clinton Moyo, Tshepo M. Ndhlovu, Mathildah M. Mokgatle, Sangiwe Moyo, Sehlule Moyo, Martha Chadyiwa, Mandeep K. Kochar, Mokgadi Malahlela, Takalani G. Tshitangano, David D. Mphuthi
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: This qualitative study aimed to investigate the barriers that hinder men’s utilisation of healthcare services in the Sedibeng district of South Africa.Methods: The study was conducted using flyers with questions posted on the Best Health Solutions’ Facebook page for two weeks. A convenience sampling method was used and a total of 104 comments were collected from 64 respondents. The authors analysed the participants’ self-reported data thematically on demographics, geographic area, and reasons for men not using healthcare services.Results: The findings revealed that sociocultural norms played a significant role in men’s reluctance to seek medical help, as it was perceived as a sign of weakness. The scarcity of male healthcare professionals hinders open discussions. Stigma and discrimination were identified as substantial barriers. Convenience, trust, and confidentiality concerns, along with the influence of intimate partners, also influence men’s decision-making.Conclusion: This study highlights the complex interplay between various barriers that impact men’s utilisation of healthcare services in the district. By addressing these factors, healthcare providers and policymakers can enhance healthcare access and promote better health outcomes for men in Sedibeng district.Contribution: The manuscript’s primary contribution lies in uncovering multifaceted barriers to men’s healthcare utilisation in Sedibeng district. It explores socio-cultural norms, healthcare worker demographics, stigma, discrimination, convenience factors, trust, confidentiality concerns, and the influence of intimate partners on men’s healthcare choices. These insights illuminate the complex factors affecting men’s healthcare access, providing valuable knowledge for healthcare providers and policymakers.
期刊介绍:
Accounts of Chemical Research presents short, concise and critical articles offering easy-to-read overviews of basic research and applications in all areas of chemistry and biochemistry. These short reviews focus on research from the author’s own laboratory and are designed to teach the reader about a research project. In addition, Accounts of Chemical Research publishes commentaries that give an informed opinion on a current research problem. Special Issues online are devoted to a single topic of unusual activity and significance.
Accounts of Chemical Research replaces the traditional article abstract with an article "Conspectus." These entries synopsize the research affording the reader a closer look at the content and significance of an article. Through this provision of a more detailed description of the article contents, the Conspectus enhances the article's discoverability by search engines and the exposure for the research.