Influencing Healthcare Utilization: Exploring the Interplay of Education, Attitudes, and Distance in Access to Health Services

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between education, attitudes, and distance as influencing factors on healthcare utilization patterns. 19 research articles published between 2018 and 2022 were analyzed using quantitative meta-analysis to synthesize existing evidence. The articles examined the effects of education, attitudes, and distance on the utilization of healthcare.The findings indicate that education has no substantial effect on healthcare utilization, suggesting that a higher level of education does not necessarily result in a greater utilization of health services. However, positive attitudes are significantly associated with a 4.42-fold increased likelihood of healthcare utilization, indicating that favorable perceptions of healthcare play a crucial role in encouraging service use.Regarding distance, the analysis determined that it does not have a significant effect on healthcare utilization. This suggests that, contrary to expectations, individuals living further from healthcare facilities do not necessarily encounter greater barriers to accessing health services. These findings provide policymakers and healthcare professionals with important insights for developing evidence-based measures to enhance healthcare access and public health outcomes. Promoting health services to families and communities, improving attitudes and perceptions toward healthcare, and removing barriers to healthcare utilization are examples of possible strategies. Additionally, comprehensive health promotion and healthcare services tailored to suit the needs of the community may increase healthcare utilization. By comprehending these connections, targeted programs can be developed to ensure equitable access to healthcare and enhance the health of the entire population.