Healthcare Behavior, Utilization and Associated Factors in the Rural Areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa-Pakistan

Abstract

Health care seeking behavior, utilization and its associated are important for the economic development of a country. However, the subject has not caught enough attention in Pakistan. Therefore, current research study is implemented in the rural areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan. The study used mixed method approach and data were collected from 278 respondents and 20 key informants. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The use of formal health facilities was found a bit high (56%) as compared to the informal healthcare facilities (44%). The private healthcare utilization was high as compared to government healthcare facilities. Gender, education, income, and location were found as the important factors affecting healthcare utilization in the study area. It is concluded that although rural people tend to utilize formal healthcare, but still the informal system is active. Therefore, the government healthcare system must emphasize on quality and timely service provision.