Health Seeking Patterns among Tribal Women in Lahaul Spiti and Kinnaur Districts of Himachal Pradesh: Addressing Healthcare Challenges

Abstract

The present study investigates the health seeking behaviour of tribal women in the remote regions of Lahaul Spiti and Kinnaur. It emphasizes the role of supply side factors as key determinants in healthcare access. Despite governmental efforts to enhance healthcare reach, our study uncovers significant shortcomings that adversely affect service quality. Through primary survey and focus group discussions, the study explores the challenges faced by tribal women. These challenges include a constantly changing roster of medical professionals, limited access to experienced doctors, and a notable lack of specialized care, especially in gynaecology. The frequent dysfunction of vital diagnostic tools forces local residents to undertake long, costly journeys for medical care, leading to potential delays in receiving treatment. The study also observes the prevalent use of traditional medicine, deeply ingrained in local traditions, serving as both a supplement and an alternative to the mainstream healthcare system. This research sheds light on how these deficiencies in supply side healthcare, compounded by environmental and infrastructural barriers, influence the health related decisions of women, often pushing them towards alternative treatments and increasing their socio economic strain. The findings emphasize the urgent need for an integrated approach to bridge the healthcare gap and ensure the provision of quality medical services to these isolated and vulnerable communities.