DOI: 10.11648/j.wjph.20261102.21 ISSN: 2637-6059

A Study of Healthcare-seeking Patterns Among Residents in Lalgudi Town Panchayat, Tamil Nadu, India

Pavendar Tamilarasan, Vadivel Sivalingam
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This research explores healthcare-seeking patterns among residents of Lalgudi Town Panchayat, Tamil Nadu, India, addressing the critical need for equitable access to health services in rural areas. The study aims to understand the factors influencing the utilisation of government health services, given the complex interplay of social, economic, and cultural elements. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 600 hospital visitors and subsequently analysed using factor analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM). The findings highlight several key drivers of healthcare utilisation, including adequate staffing levels, patients' mindsets, service convenience, and the availability of free treatment. Additionally, social and cultural influences, such as patient satisfaction, ease of access, and cost-free services, were found to significantly impact residents' healthcare decisions. Despite generally high levels of trust and satisfaction with local government hospitals, challenges persist, including limited health awareness, resource shortages, and ingrained social barriers. The study concludes with recommendations to enhance healthcare accessibility and equity through sustained investments in healthcare infrastructure, targeted community outreach initiatives, and evidence-based policy planning. These insights are crucial for improving health outcomes in Lalgudi and similar rural contexts in India, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of achieving better health equity.

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