Factors associated with unmet medical needs among people with disabilities using Andersen's model in South Korea

This study applied Andersen's behavioral model to identify unmet medical needs and related associated factors among people with disabilities.

The analysis was conducted on 7,581 people with disabilities aged ≥20 years, obtained from the 2023 Survey on People with Disabilities in Korea.

The results showed that 17.2% of people with disabilities reported wanting to visit a medical institution but were unable to do so. The main reasons for unmet medical needs were "difficulty in transportation", "economic reasons", and "lack of time", which accounted for 73.0% of cases. According to Andersen's model, the predisposing factors associated with unmet medical needs included female sex and low educational attainment. Enabling factors included low income and the inability to go out independently. Needs factors with a statistically significant association included external functional disabilities, mild disabilities, depression, and suicidal ideation.

To address unmet medical needs positively, rather than controlling for nonmodifiable predisposing factors, greater consideration should be given to modifiable enabling and need factors. Therefore, improvements in economic conditions and mental healthcare should be prioritized. Further, enhancing healthcare accessibility tailored to the needs of people with disabilities, and implementing community-based public health and policy efforts to meet specific requirements are essential.