Bus Workers’ Experiences with and Perceptions of a Health Promotion Program: A Qualitative Study Using a Focus Group Discussion

Abstract

We conducted a focus group discussion with bus workers to evaluate their experiences and perceptions, as well as their reasons for participating in a program for vulnerable workers. The study also sought to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the program. A total of nine bus workers participated in the focus group discussion. The focus group discussion was conducted based on a semi-structured guide, which was developed from discussions among the researchers and a review of major preliminary studies. The verbatim transcriptions were analyzed using content analysis. The sole existence of a health promotion program for vulnerable workers in Ulsan was sufficient to attract participants who had not been involved in other health management programs. Participants reported that participation in the program mitigated some of their musculoskeletal symptoms, which are often faced by bus workers. The findings of this study may contribute to the expansion of the health promotion program targeting workers in vulnerable working environments in Ulsan and other places. In order to increase users' satisfaction and the sustainability of the program, it is necessary to develop a strategy to increase the accessibility of the program and enhance the self-efficacy of participants.

COVID‐19 mortality among Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) and Transport Workers Union (TWU) workers—March–July 2020, New York City metro area

“…A previous investigation reported approximately 40% of MTA transit workers had one or more underlying health problems 40 . Previous studies have also indicated bus and subway operators are at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases and abdominal obesity compared with the general population 11,16,23,41 …”

“…40 Previous studies have also indicated bus and subway operators are at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases and abdominal obesity compared with the general population. 11 , 16 , 23 , 41 …”

Qualitative Research in Healthcare: Necessity and Characteristics

“…Quantitative research, which focuses on hypothesis validation, such as the superiority of specific treatments or the effectiveness of specific policies, and the generalization of findings, has been the primary research methodology in the field of healthcare. Qualitative research has been mostly applied for studies such as subjective disease experiences and attitudes with respect to health-related patient quality of life [10][11][12], experiences and perceptions regarding the use of healthcare services [13][14][15], and assessments of the quality of care [16,17]. Moreover, qualitative research has focused on vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, disabled [18][19][20], minorities, and socially underprivileged with specific experiences [21,22].…”