Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master in Public Health

Keywords

Diabetes mellitus, Primary Care, Healthcare Access, Patient Experience, Socio- ecological Model.

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a growing public health concern. At present, diabetes mellitus is within the top 10 causes of morbidity and mortality in the Philippines. The purpose of this study is to explore patient experience in accessing diabetes care at the primary care level in the city of Parañaque, Philippines.

Methods: The study utilized a convergent parallel mixed methods study design. Patient experience regarding accessing diabetes care at the primary care level was assessed in two ways. Quantitatively through the 31-item ‘Perceived Access to Healthcare’ Questionnaire and qualitatively using a semi-structured interview based on the Socio-ecological Model by Urie Bronfenbrenner through focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Study was done in three barangay health centers in the city of Parañaque. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Philippine Social Science Council.

Results: For the quantitative portion, the questionnaire assessed healthcare access through 6 domains. The domains of ‘Acceptability’, ‘Availability’, and ‘Awareness’ scored the highest while ‘Accessibility’, ‘Affordability’, and ‘Accommodation’ scored the highest. For the qualitative portion, it revealed the central role of the barangay health worker along with family and community organization in mediating healthcare access for patients with diabetes.

Conclusion: Healthcare access to diabetes care in urban areas is sufficient. Diabetes outcomes in urban areas are affected by factors beyond healthcare access. It is important for diabetes care to not only have medications available but rather the proper social support such as the presence of barangay health workers and family.

First Advisor

Rommel L. Salazar, RN, MAN, DrPH

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