Coping with uncertainty during healthcare-seeking in Lao PDR

摘要: Uncertainty is regarded as a central dimension in the experience of illness and processes alleviating it. Few studies from resource-poor settings have investigated this how it interacts with other factors. This study aims to shed light on healthcare-seeking develops context multiple medical alternatives understand what bearing uncertainty has process. The was conducted six purposively selected rural communities Lao PDR. In each community, two focus group discussions were held: first mothers then fathers children younger than five years old. Eleven in-depth interviews caregivers severely sick conducted. Subsequently, traditional healers, drug vendors, community health workers, nurses doctors recruited for or discussions. data transcribed key themes similarities identified. Additional readings better interactions factors during which identified one several mentioned Care-seekers expressed strong preference initially seeking local providers. providers consulted increase chances recovery. resulted patients leaving facilities before recovery ending recommended treatment regime prematurely. These decisions reflect social significance being responsible caregiver showing respect household norms. general, shrouded when came selecting right provider, likelihood finding real cause illness, spending savings treatments ultimately Care-seekers’ initial irrespective providers’ legitimacy indicates need robust primary healthcare system. subsequent consultations must be understood their regarding skills available connotations including vulnerability poor households public taken into account only limited extent by workers. Health workers should greater awareness cultural aspects care.