Republic of the Philippines

ISABELA STATE UNIVERSITY

Cabagan, Isabela

COLLEGE OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION AND ARTS & SCIENCES

FACTORS AFFECTING ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE

SERVICES IN
RURAL AREAS IN THE PHILPPINES

A mini research study in partial fulfillment for the requirement in

Purposive Communication

By:
Sheena Mae M. Arnasan
Mignonet T. Cammayo
Joana Grace B. Gorosper
Thom John Z. Marayag
Jane B. Obispo
Cristina L. Saquing
Warren S. Sanchez

To:
Jennifer G. Valencia, Ph.D

A.Y. 2022-2023
 Republic of the Philippines
ISABELA STATE UNIVERSITY
Cabagan, Isabela

COLLEGE OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION AND ARTS & SCIENCES

CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
RATIONALE

Access to healthcare services plays a vital role in promoting the well-being and health
outcomes of populations. However, rural areas in the Philippines face unique challenges in
accessing healthcare services. Understanding the factors that affect access to healthcare
services in rural areas of the Philippines is crucial for developing targeted interventions and
policies. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that considers the
unique context of rural communities. Efforts should focus on improving transportation
infrastructure to facilitate the movement of patients, medical supplies, and healthcare
personnel. Investment in healthcare infrastructure, including the establishment of more
healthcare facilities and the deployment of medical equipment, is vital to expand service
coverage in rural areas.

To address the shortage of healthcare professionals, incentives and support systems should be
implemented to encourage healthcare workers to practice in rural areas. This can include
financial incentives, career development opportunities, and improved living conditions.
Initiatives should also be undertaken to enhance healthcare education and training programs
in rural areas, nurturing a pipeline of locally trained healthcare professionals.

To mitigate socioeconomic disparities, policies should aim to provide financial protection and
reduce out-of-pocket payments for healthcare services. Expanding health insurance coverage
and implementing targeted subsidy programs can alleviate the financial burden on rural.

By recognizing these factors, policymakers and healthcare stakeholders can develop targeted
interventions to improve healthcare access and reduce disparities between rural and urban
populations. Through these efforts, it is possible to enhance healthcare access and promote
better health outcomes for rural populations in the Philippines.
 Republic of the Philippines
ISABELA STATE UNIVERSITY
Cabagan, Isabela

COLLEGE OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION AND ARTS & SCIENCES

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The Philippines is an archipelago composed of over 7,000 islands, with a significant portion
of its population residing in rural areas. Access to healthcare services is a fundamental right,
yet rural areas in the Philippines encounter numerous barriers in obtaining adequate
healthcare. This paper examines the factors influencing healthcare service access in rural
areas of the country, including geographical challenges, limited healthcare infrastructure,
 Republic of the Philippines
ISABELA STATE UNIVERSITY
Cabagan, Isabela

COLLEGE OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION AND ARTS & SCIENCES

shortage of healthcare professionals, socioeconomic disparities, and cultural and behavioral

factors.

Geographical Challenges

The geographic landscape of the Philippines poses challenges for healthcare access in rural
areas. Many rural communities are situated in remote locations, often far from urban centers
where healthcare facilities are concentrated. Islands and mountainous terrains further
exacerbate the issue, making transportation to and from healthcare facilities difficult and
costly. Lack of adequate road networks and transportation infrastructure hinders the timely
delivery of medical supplies and the deployment of healthcare personnel to rural areas.

Limited Healthcare Infrastructure

Rural areas in the Philippines generally have limited healthcare infrastructure. The density of
healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, and health centers, is significantly lower
compared to urban areas. Many rural communities lack even basic healthcare facilities,
forcing residents to travel long distances for essential medical services. Insufficient healthcare
infrastructure also means a lack of specialized medical equipment, diagnostic tools, and
emergency services, making it challenging to provide comprehensive healthcare to rural
populations.

Shortage of Healthcare Professionals

The shortage of healthcare professionals is a major barrier to accessing healthcare services in

rural areas of the Philippines. Many healthcare professionals prefer to work in urban areas,
where there are more opportunities for career growth, higher salaries, and better living
conditions. This brain drain leaves rural areas with limited access to doctors, nurses, and
other medical personnel. The limited presence of healthcare professionals in rural
communities leads to longer waiting times, reduced availability of services, and compromised
quality of care.
 Republic of the Philippines
ISABELA STATE UNIVERSITY
Cabagan, Isabela

COLLEGE OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION AND ARTS & SCIENCES

Socioeconomic Disparities

Socioeconomic disparities significantly impact healthcare access in rural areas. Poverty rates
tend to be higher in rural communities, resulting in limited financial resources to afford
healthcare expenses. Out-of-pocket payments for medical services can be burdensome for
rural populations, leading to delayed or forgone care. Additionally, the lack of health
insurance coverage among the rural poor further restricts their ability to access healthcare
services. Socioeconomic factors also contribute to lower health literacy levels, making it
challenging for rural populations to understand and navigate the healthcare system.

Cultural and Behavioral Factors

Cultural and behavioral factors can influence healthcare access in rural areas. Traditional
beliefs, cultural practices, and language barriers may deter individuals from seeking modern
healthcare services. Alternative healing practices and reliance on traditional healers can limit
the utilization of formal healthcare services. Stigma surrounding certain health conditions,
such as mental health, may also discourage individuals from seeking necessary care.

Furthermore, cultural norms and gender roles can restrict women's access to healthcare,
particularly in patriarchal societies.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Access to healthcare services in rural areas of the Philippines is hindered by various factors,
resulting in disparities in healthcare access and outcomes between rural and urban
populations. This study aims to investigate and understand the specific factors that contribute
to limited access to healthcare services in rural areas of the Philippines. By identifying these
factors, policymakers and healthcare stakeholders can develop targeted strategies and
interventions to improve healthcare access and bridge the healthcare gap between rural and
urban communities.

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES

The specific objective of this study is to comprehensively examine the factors that affect
access to healthcare services in rural areas of the Philippines. Specifically, the study aims to:
 Republic of the Philippines
ISABELA STATE UNIVERSITY
Cabagan, Isabela

COLLEGE OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION AND ARTS & SCIENCES

1. Identify the geographical challenges faced by rural communities, including the impact
of remoteness, terrain, and transportation infrastructure on healthcare access.
2. Assess the extent of limited healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, including the
availability of healthcare facilities, medical equipment, and emergency services.
3. Investigate the shortage of healthcare professionals in rural areas and its implications
for healthcare access and quality of care.
4. Examine the socioeconomic disparities that hinder healthcare access, such as financial
constraints, lack of health insurance coverage, and their impact on healthcare-seeking
behavior.

5. Analyze the cultural and behavioral factors that influence healthcare access in rural
communities, including traditional healing practices, stigma, and gender roles.
6. Provide insights and recommendations for policymakers and healthcare stakeholders
to develop targeted interventions and strategies to improve healthcare access in rural
areas of the Philippines, aiming to reduce disparities and enhance overall health
outcomes for rural populations.
 Republic of the Philippines
ISABELA STATE UNIVERSITY
Cabagan, Isabela

COLLEGE OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION AND ARTS & SCIENCES

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