Health beliefs of rural Canadians: implications for practice

The objective of the present study was to examine the health beliefs, values and practices of rural residents living in two geographically diverse regions of western Canada.

An ethnographic study with semistructured interviews of 55 persons was conducted with participants ranging in age from 19 to 84 years.

Being healthy was described as having balance in one's life, taking into consideration the relationship between the physical, mental, social, and spiritual aspects of the person. Health-seeking behaviours spanned the gamut of diet, exercise, sleep, home remedies, a belief in a spiritual being, to consulting health professionals. Resources that participants valued included professionals who listened, friends, neighbours, church, music, elders, ambulance service and the internet.

It is important that professionals view the person beyond the disease and take into account more than the physical manifestations of an illness. A key component is the demonstration of respect for all persons regardless of age. It is essential that health professionals develop websites providing accurate health-care information. Participants noted the need to recruit and retain professionals in rural regions.