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Disparities in access to ear and hearing care in Cambodia: a mixed methods study on patient experiences
C J Waterworth1,2, C T M Watters3, T Sokdavy4
1Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
Objective:
Chronic suppurative otitis media is a major global disease disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries, but few studies have explored access to care for those with ear and hearing disorders.
Method:
In a tertiary hospital in Cambodia providing specialist ear services, a mixed method study was undertaken. This study had three arms: (1) quantitative analysis of patients undergoing ear surgery, (2) a questionnaire survey and (3) semi-structured in-depth interviews.
Results:
Patients presented with advanced middle-ear disease and associated hearing loss at rates that are amongst the highest per capita levels globally. Patients reported several structural, financial and socio-cultural barriers to treatment. This study showed a significant burden of ear disease in Cambodia, which reflects a delay in receiving timely and effective treatment.
Conclusion:
This study highlights the opportunity to integrate effective ear and hearing care into primary care service provision, strengthening the package of activities delivered at government facilities.
