5 Differential in Health-Care Seeking Behavior for Mothers Versus Children in Rural Western India

Background and aims Health-care seeking behavior is affected by various socio-economic, physical and cultural factors. A proper understanding of such factors can improve access to health-care and focus the development of health outreach programs. We determined factors that influence and differentiate health-seeking behaviors for children compared to care for mothers among women in rural India. Method Cross-sectional health survey of women, 18–45 years conducted by female interviewers in a hospital clinic and in sixteen surrounding villages in rural Gujarat, India. As a part of the survey, respondents identified the “most significant factor” that influences their decision when selecting a health-care provider. Additionally, respondents with a living child were also asked the same question in regards seeking care for their children. Results 681 women completed the survey, of which 496 reported having a living child. Of these 496, 193 (39%) identified cost as “most significant factor” when choosing a provider for themselves compared with only to 73 (15%) for their children (χ2, p