ECONOMIC BARRIERS AS A LARGE PART OF THE PROBLEM WITH ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE
JAN NEUGEBAUER
Abstract:
This study examines the economic barriers to healthcare access, focusing on their impact on vulnerable populations. The study presents the Health Care Access Barriers (HCAB) model and explores financial, structural, and cognitive barriers. Literature analysis and interviews were used to reveal the economic barriers. Results indicate that financial barriers, such as high deductibles and co-pays, are particularly burdensome for low-income individuals. Structural barriers, including limited access to transportation and healthcare facilities, exacerbate these challenges, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Cognitive barriers, such as health literacy and fear of medical debt, further hinder healthcare-seeking behaviors. Understanding the complex interplay of these barriers is crucial for developing effective interventions to improve healthcare access and equity. Expert analysis adds new views such as lost productivity, travel costs, management challenges, or economic disparities.
Keywords: Economic Barriers, Healthcare access, Disparities, Models
DOI: 10.52950/4OSC-Athens.2024.8.004
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