Access to Health Care in Appalachia

Abstract

Introduction Health disparities such as cancer and diabetes are well documented in Appalachia. These disparities contribute to health status, and by many indicators, Appalachian people are less healthy than those who live in other parts of the country. Access to health care is one factor that contributes to health disparities. Access to care is complex and involves both intrinsic and extrinsic aspects, including satisfaction with quality of care. This research sought to compare Appalachian to non-Appalachian communities in terms of perceptions of access to care. Methods We implemented a statewide survey to quantify perceptions of multiple components of access to care, including satisfaction with quality of care. We compared survey results to quantitative data from the County Health Rankings to document consistency with perceptions of access to care. We used chi-square analysis to compare Appalachian with non-Appalachian respondents. Results More than 600 people completed the survey. Results of the survey identify significant differences between Appalachian and non-Appalachian residents’ perceptions of access to care and their satisfaction with health care. Specifically, Appalachian residents are less satisfied with convenience, information, quality, and courtesy of health care. They perceive providers relying on stereotypes when communicating with patients. Implications Examining and documenting perceptions of health care is important because it could lead to improving access by focusing on cultural competency in addition to more resource intensive strategies. Health disparities in Appalachia might be minimized by being more compassionate and understanding of people who live here.

Poor Outcomes of Patients From Delayed Care After Ground Level Falls

“…Access to care, however, is not only defined as proximity to needed services but also health literacy and cost. 11…”

Health Disparities in Appalachian and Other Rural Communities

“…The lack of access to health and mental health care facilities includes medical and licensed professionals. Medical specialists, dentists, and mental health professionals may be in particular shortage in rural areas (Cai & Lalani, 2022;Dobis & Todd, 2022;Mattos et al, 2019;Morrone et al, 2021). This problem in rural communities was also confirmed by the stakeholders surveyed by Healthy Rural People 2020 as 75% (n = 555) identified access to quality health services as a public health and intervention priority (Bolin et al, 2015).…”

Social Determinants and Health Disparities Pertaining to Diabetes in Appalachia

“…12 Another study found significant differences between the perceptions of access to care and satisfaction with healthcare services among Appalachian and nonAppalachian residents. 15 The use of stigmatizing language from health care providers has a negative impact on the quality of care provided to individuals living with diabetes. 16 Providers have identified significant comorbid psychoso cial issues, such as high rates of depression, anxiety, incest, abuse, and posttraumatic stress disorder, among individuals with diabetes in this region.…”