Socio-Demographic Determinants of Health Status and Healthcare-Seeking Behavior Among ENT Outpatients in a Community Population of Bangladesh

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Health-seeking behavior is essential for timely diagnosis and management of illnesses. Understanding sociodemographic determinants and patterns of healthcare utilization helps improve healthcare delivery for community population. This study aimed to assess the sociodemographic factors, health practices, presenting complaints, and healthcare-seeking behavior of patients attending an ENT outpatient department at Gopalganj Medical College Hospital. Methods & Materials: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2024. A total of 102 patients of all ages and sexes were selected using convenience sampling. Data on socio-demographics, personal health practices, health status, presenting complaints, healthcare-seeking behavior, and satisfaction with hospital services were collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The majority of respondents were young (30.4% aged 1–18 years) and female (58.8%), with primary or secondary education. Most lived in small households (1–5 members) and had a monthly income of 26,000–50,000 BDT. Common presenting complaints were throat pain and hearing impairment (31.4% each). Most participants sought care from pharmacies (58.8%) or UHCs (34.3%), with nearly half traveling 11–100 km to access healthcare. Despite accessibility challenges, 69.6% rated hospital services as good. Conclusion: Most community members attending the ENT OPD had generally good personal health practices, with throat and ear complaints being the most common. Healthcare was primarily sought from pharmacies and UHCs, with some traveling long distances, and the majority were satisfied with hospital services. Improving access to formal healthcare services and enhancing awareness could promote timely and appropriate care.