Barriers to Chronic Disease Healthcare Access in Rural Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

Bibliographic Data

ID15514441
AuthorsSiphelele Mntungwana (Walter Sisulu University), Ntiyiso Vinny Khosa (0000-0002-3857-8225, Walter Sisulu University), Andiswa Buso (Walter Sisulu University), Andiswa Esethu Buso (Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha 5117, South Africa), Nomfuneko Sithole (0009-0000-3094-2523, Walter Sisulu University, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume22
Issue12
Pages1881-1881
Publication date2025-12-18
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1661-7827 • E-ISSN: 1660-4601
PublisherMultidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (PUBLISHER • CH)
DOI10.3390/ijerph22121881
PMID41464514
OpenAlexW4417453489
LanguageEN
References cited24

Background : Inadequate access to healthcare in rural areas worsens the burden of disease, leading to increased morbidity and mortality rates. This study aims to explore the multifaceted barriers that hinder access to chronic disease management at selected rural facilities of the Eastern Cape Province. Methods : An exploratory descriptive qualitative design was used to collect data from a sample size of 32 participants (23 patients and 9 health professionals) between November and December 2024. A convenient sampling technique was used to select participants for the study. Semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded; transcribed; and analyzed using thematic analysis. The interview tool was piloted in one of the primary healthcare facilities in the Eastern Cape, which was not used in the actual study. Ethical principles were adhered to throughout the study. The study adhered to the Access to Healthcare conceptual framework. Results : The study identified three themes: barriers of access to healthcare services, experiences and perspectives, and existing strategies or interventions. Conclusions : Addressing systemic issues like workforce shortages, infrastructure deficits, and socioeconomic challenges in rural Eastern Cape requires a multifaceted approach, including strengthening community-based services and ensuring equitable resource distribution

Cape · Descriptive research · Health care · Qualitative research · Rural area · Rural health · Socioeconomic status · Thematic analysis · Workforce · Global Health Workforce Issues · Global Maternal and Child Health · Primary Care and Health Outcomes

Tools

Open DOIOpen Access