Exploration of factors influencing health seeking behavior among university students in Tanzania: a case of the University of Dodoma
Loading...
Date
2020
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Dodoma
Abstract
This study explored factors influencing Health Seeking Behavior among University Students with a case of Students of the University of Dodoma. The study was guided by three specific objectives: to explore socio-cultural aspects of Health Seeking Behavior among UDOM students; to examine the economic aspects of Health Seeking Behavior among UDOM students and to evaluate the political factors of Health Seeking Behavior among UDOM students. In the methodology, the study used a mixed approach, where both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection and analysis were applied. The study used three methods in primary data collection, which were social survey, in-depth interview and focus group discussion. Purposive sampling method was used for attaining key informants for in-depth interview, whereas stratified and simple random sampling were used to obtain social survey and focus group discussion respondents. Sample size for social survey was obtained by the use of an online software (Calculator.net) for sample calculation that resulted to 73 respondents, whereby the qualitative part depended on the saturation point in gathering information. Quantitative data was analyzed by using Social Science Statistical Package (SPSS) Version 20 while qualitative data was analyzed by the use for pattern matching and strong explanation building. Findings from this study have revealed that social-cultural, economic and political aspects have influenced students' Health Seeking Behaviour. Religion and wealth influenced Health Seeking Behaviour of UDOM students in varied manner. In addition, delay in attainment of Health Insurance Identity Cards was seen to be a factor that led some students not to visit hospitals. It was recommended that students need to use the adequate biomedical healthcare facilities as well as ensure timely attainment of health insurance membership cards. Healthcare practitioners and Student Welfare Officers were encouraged to ensure students are aware and use the available healthcare services. UDOM management and the government of Tanzania should play well their part by ensuring good healthcare services to students.
Description
Dissertation (MA Sociology)
Keywords
University students, Health seeking behavior, Biomedical healthcare, Healthcare, Health insurance membership cards, Health insurance, Student welfare
Citation
Ndallu, S. J. (2020). Exploration of factors influencing health seeking behavior among university students in Tanzania: a case of the University of Dodoma (Master dissertation). The University of Dodoma, Dodoma.