Accessibility of health care services by rural women in Zimbabwe. A Case study of Sanyati rural ward 2

Author

Saimon, Ropafadzo.

Title

Accessibility of health care services by rural women in Zimbabwe. A Case study of Sanyati rural ward 2

Abstract

The study explored on accessibility of health care services by rural women in Sanyati rural district ward 2. The aim of the study was to explore the accessibility of health care services by rural women in Sanyati rural district, ward 2. The research was qualitative in nature and employed in-depth interviews, focus group discussions for the purpose of data collection. A sample size of 15 respondents was drawn from the target population and was used to collect relevant data to the study. The study was underpinned by the health promotion theory in order to understand issues surrounding rural women’s access to modern health care services. Literature review was expressed and gaps were identified .Objectives of the study were to access the level of awareness on the accessibility of health care services by rural women ,factors affecting utilization of modern healthcare by women in Sanyati rural ward 2, and to develop a strategic plan to enhance accessibility to health care services by rural women in Zimbabwe. The study findings showed that the women in rural areas do not have enough knowledge on modern health services and this is affecting utilization of modern health services. The study also revealed that traditional leadership and religious beliefs, technological advancement, as well as social support networks affects women’s utilization and access to modern health care services. The study revealed that mechanisms such as construction of more clinics and hospitals, educating traditional and religious leadership on modern health care services and deployment of more health workers in rural areas across Zimbabwe can improve women’s access, awareness and utilization of health care can reduce deaths among women in rural areas.

Date

June 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Health care services,

Health promotion theory,

Rural women, Sanyati

Supervisor

Mr. Magocha,