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Patient and health system-related determinants of delayed health seeking among pediatric encephalitis cases

Aman Agarwal1, Umaer Alam1, Neha Srivastava1

  • 1ICMR-Regional Medical Research Center, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care
|June 8, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Many parents in India choose uncertified medical practitioners (UMPs) for pediatric Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) treatment. This delays care and worsens outcomes, highlighting the need for better public health facilities and community awareness.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics
  • Health Services Research

Background:

  • Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) poses a significant public health challenge in India.
  • Treatment delays due to seeking care from uncertified medical practitioners (UMPs) negatively impact pediatric AES outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify the socio-economic, demographic, and behavioral factors influencing parents' decisions to seek treatment for pediatric AES patients from UMPs.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to December 2023.
  • Data were collected from caregivers of pediatric AES patients regarding their treatment-seeking behaviors.
  • Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were employed to analyze determinants of UMP use.

Main Results:

  • Over 60% of pediatric AES cases initially sought treatment from UMPs.
  • Key factors for choosing UMPs included proximity of UMPs, distance to government facilities, and lack of disease awareness.
  • Older patients (≥12 years) and rural residency showed higher odds of UMP utilization.

Conclusions:

  • The study highlights the substantial role of UMPs in pediatric AES treatment, contributing to adverse health outcomes.
  • Strengthening public health infrastructure and enhancing community awareness regarding AES are crucial.
Abstract

Keywords:
Childencephalitishelp-seeking behaviorquackerysocial determinants of health

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