Abstract:
This study intends to assess the socioeconomic differences concerning health seeking behaviour among locals in coastal communities of Tanzania. Specifically,
the study intends to assess the variations in terms of socioeconomic differences
among locals in coastal communities and their relationship with health-seeking
behaviour and established factors influencing health-seeking behaviour among
locals in coastal communities. The study used both quantitative and qualitative
research methods. Questionnaires were used for data collection; in-depth
interviews were conducted with key informants, and four focus group discussions
were conducted within the study area. In all, 200 respondents comprising 64
males and 134 females were interviewed, while in-depth interviews included five
sub-village chairpersons and four health staff from the primary health centres
within the study area. Data were examined and subjected to statistical tests,
mainly chi-square (P≥ 0.05. The findings of the study revealed that most of the
respondents within the study area were highly influenced by financial capability,
belief in a particular disease (nature of the disease), education level, and
availability of health facilities. These were the influencing factors concerning the
decision taken at the household level when a person falls ill. Variations among
locals in coastal communities based on the mentioned forces. This study, among
others, recommends that locals within the study area should use the available
health services once they become ill. The decision about health care should be
made by understanding illness, seriousness, and financial capacity for the health
and productive community.
