Health Help-Seeking Behavior: The Scavengers’ Perspective

Abstract

Scavengers are prone to various health problems, hence seeking healthcare is inevitable. Despite the importance of the help-seeking behavior of scavengers, it has not been addressed explicitly in the existing literature. Addressing this gap, this study intends to explore the help-seeking behavior of scavengers and to identify the factors that influence healthcare utilization among them. This qualitative study conducted thirty-one in-depth interviews through a semi-structured interview guide and analyzed them using thematic analysis. Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Health Service Use was employed to explore the findings. The findings showed that the scavengers utilized multiple healthcare options depending on the severity and reoccurrence of the illness. The process of help-seeking and health services utilization was largely influenced by the cost of the health service, long distance to the health facility, traveling cost and waiting time. The study highlights the need for scavengers’ enrolment in micro health insurance schemes. The initiative would facilitate scavengers’ access to medical care. Health awareness campaigns and the provision of free mobile medical services, especially at the landfill sites, would also improve curative treatment among scavengers.

Untold Stories from the Slums: A Qualitative Exploration of the Lives of Female Informal Waste Workers

“…Prioritizing occupational health and safety protocols, including specialized training in self-defense and con ict resolution, and implementing policies aimed at addressing gender-based violence are essential steps in creating a safer working environment for these workers. By proactively addressing these issues, policymakers and stakeholders can signi cantly mitigate the risks faced by informal waste workers, ultimately fostering an environment that promotes their dignity, security, and overall welfare (Malik et al, 2022).…”

“…Female waste workers, in particular, are vulnerable to mental health disorders . Discriminatory practices against waste workers, even in healthcare settings, are evident (Malik et al, 2022). Previous research indicates that waste workers often feel marginalized due to societal perceptions of their occupation (Mote et al, 2016).…”