Tribals in transition: decoding health-seeking for modern epidemics: a mixed-method study

Geographic isolation, limited access to healthcare, and socioeconomic disparities are challenges to the tribal population. The study aimed to explore the health-seeking behaviours, facilitators, and barriers to non-communicable disease (NCD) care among tribal communities in rural Telangana.

This explanatory mixed-methods study was conducted among tribal communities of Bommalaramaram, India. Quantitative data were collected using a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire, and focused group discussions were conducted to collect qualitative data.

The mean (SD) age of participants was 52.5 (14.8) years, and about 206 (51.5%) were females. Only 8 (2%) participants were aware of the ideal age for NCD screening. Most participants preferred informal health care providers (47%), followed by private facilities (45%), and only 8% preferred a government health care facility. About 15% of participants have never been screened for NCDs. Facilitators for NCD care included awareness of NCDs and risk factors, positive attitudes, accessible healthcare, supportive government programmes, family support, fear of premature death, medication adherence, regular follow-ups, dietary changes, and positive healthcare experiences. Barriers included mistrust and dissatisfaction with public health services, perceived system deficiencies, low risk perception before diagnosis, poor medication adherence, distance to facilities, transportation, and financial constraints, neglect of the elderly, lack of awareness about government services, and changes in agricultural practices and food quality.

Regular screening for NCD and the continuum of care should be strengthened for tribal people. A system for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of NCD interventions in tribal areas can be set up to ensure that programmes are meeting their needs.