Musa Laighi Ghale Sokhteh, Ahmad Kalateh Sadati, Hossein Afrasiabi, Sara Sadeghieh,
Volume 22, Issue 1 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background and Purpose: The development of the rural areas relies heavily on addressing health issues and ensuring access to healthcare for the villagers. The primary objective of this research is to explore the perceptions and experiences related to access to health services among the residents of the Falard county in Lordegan, Iran.
Material and Methods: This study employed a qualitative research method utilizing grounded theory. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, achieving saturation with a sample of 20 participants. The manuscript data were analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding methods, ultimately leading to the development of a grounded theory.
Results: The findings showed that the understanding and experience of the villagers is based on the change in the pattern of diseases and the need for specialized and super-specialized services, and in this context, a kind of comparison is made with the urban dwellers. The participants face obstacles to receive the mentioned services, while the actions of the rural health house centers are not up to their expectations. The three main categories which explored are: incomplete access and coverage, feelings of inequality, and marginalization. The central theme of this research is encapsulated in the concept of an intensified perception of inequality in access to health services.
Conclusion: The development of rural villages relies heavily on addressing health issues and ensuring access to related services. Despite the significant efforts made by governments over the past four decades to improve rural health, access to these services remains a critical concern. The changing patterns of diseases, the aging population of villagers, and the growing sense of relative deprivation and inequality in accessing health services are the most pressing challenges that health policymakers must prioritize.
