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Living In a Regional Area: Access, Utilisation and Health Care Quality
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 19:13 authored by Le, Q, Stuart AucklandStuart Auckland, Hoang NguyenHoang Nguyen, Terry, D, Thi HoangThi HoangPrimary health care plays a significant role in the well-being of individuals and communities, yet access to these services can vary. Factors such as socio-economic status and location of residence can impact this access. A study was conducted to investigate the relationship between location, utilisation, quality and health outcomes of primary health care services in the Meander Valley municipality of Tasmania, Australia. This paper reports the findings of the study which adopted a mixed-methods approach with multiple sources of data including government reports, survey questionnaires and interviews. The regional socio-economic disadvantage reflected not only the health disparities and poorer health conditions, but also the affordability to seek care. This was compounded by the lower levels of available health services and private health insurance. The lack of local services or their low quality was the main motivation for many to seek care outside of the region, which was unaffordable and at times logistically impossible. On the basis of the findings, a number of recommendations are provided to guide the current and future health care services and to improve the well-being of the Meander Valley community.
History
Publication title
International Journal of Innovative Interdisciplinary ResearchPagination
20-32ISSN
1839-9053Department/School
School of Health SciencesPublisher
Australian Multicultural Interaction InstitutePlace of publication
AustraliaRights statement
Copyright 2013 Australian Multicultural Interaction InstituteRepository Status
- Restricted