Abstract
Background. Studies have shown that comprehensive urban and rural health centers can provide 80% of the health needs of the elderly population. However, elderly individuals often do not utilize these services. The present study aimed to investigate the reasons why elderly individuals do not access services provided by comprehensive rural and urban health centers in the southwest of Khuzestan Province, from the perspective of health center staff. Methods. This descriptive-analytical study utilized a multi-stage random sampling method to select 338 employees of comprehensive health centers in southwestern Khuzestan. A survey questionnaire was developed and administered to collect information, including demographic data and 39 questions regarding reasons for non-attendance at health centers. The validity and reliability of the survey questionnaire were assessed prior to data collection. Results. The majority of participants in this study were female (77.81%), married (74.26%), and had a bachelor's degree (32.25%). From the healthcare providers' perspective, preference for the private sector and personal factors related to the elderly or their families were identified as the main reasons for non-attendance at health centers. However, factors related to the physical condition of the centers, the quality of services provided, and the level of trust between elderly patients and healthcare providers were not found to have a significant impact on utilization of health center services. Conclusion. The elderly population's willingness to utilize first-level services in the health and treatment networks was not viewed favorably by healthcare providers. Integrating some level two and level three services into the first level of service could potentially incentivize the elderly to make greater use of these services. In addition, healthcare providers suggested that traditional medicine services should be considered and incorporated at the first level of service, given the interest in traditional medicine among the elderly population.
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