Barriers to Healthcare Access for Indigenous Communities: Insights from Healthcare Professionals

The indigenous people or 'Orang Asli' (OA) in Malaysia is a vulnerable group who lags behind in terms of socioeconomic, education and health. Despite numerous developments, health disparities still exist among the OA, resulting in varying health outcomes. This study aimed to identify barriers to providing healthcare to OA by healthcare professionals (HCPs) in Malaysia. Semi-structure interview was conducted with 20 HCPs who have experience working with OA communities. Data were analysed thematically using the Health Care Access Barriers model as a framework. Our study identified three themes which improve or hinder access to health care among OA communities. The main perceived barriers were (1) structural barriers, (2) cognitive barriers and (3) financial barriers. Our study illuminates how financial, structural and cognitive factors intersect to affect healthcare access among OA communities. To narrow the health outcome disparities, future research must engage with OA communities to ensure culturally appropriate and sustainable healthcare delivery.