A solution based assessment of the barriers to healthcare access among women in Buhera District Ward 14.

Author

Mabika, Mufaro

Title

A solution based assessment of the barriers to healthcare access among women in Buhera District Ward 14.

Abstract

Ensuring equitable access to healthcare is a cornerstone of global development, yet women in rural parts of Zimbabwe, particularly in Buhera District Ward 14, continue to experience significant challenges in utilizing health services. This issue is critical, as limited access not only affects individual well-being but also undermines broader community health and development outcomes. Despite existing studies on healthcare access, there remains a lack of research that specifically focuses on context-based, solution-oriented analyses within rural districts like Buhera. Many existing assessments overlook localized dynamics and fail to offer actionable strategies grounded in the lived experiences of rural women. This study examined specific barriers women face in accessing healthcare and identifying feasible, community-driven interventions. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative data collected through questionnaires with qualitative insights from focus group discussions and interviews with key stakeholders, including healthcare workers, local leaders, and women from the community. Questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data from a sample of 66 people. Findings indicate that limited financial constraints, high travel costs, inadequate health infrastructure, long distances to health facilities, and cultural norms significantly restrict women’s ability to seek timely healthcare. Secondly, the study also noted that delayed diagnosis, increased mortality rates and economic burdens among individual and family are among the impacts of poor access to health. The study offers evidence-based recommendations such as the introduction of mobile health clinics, women empowerment, investment in local health centers, and culturally tailored health education programs. These findings underscore the importance of designing health interventions that are both gender-responsive and context-specific, with implications for policymakers, NGOs, and community leaders seeking to improve rural health outcomes.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Healthcare Access

Barriers to Healthcare

Solution-based Assessment

Supervisor

Mr. Gomo