Demographics as Variable in Assessing the Awareness and Utilization of Health Care Services of Emirati Women in the Western Region

Abstract

Emirati women in the Western Region have limited access to specific health care. Thus, this study assessed the awareness and utilization of health care services of Emirati women of the seven municipalities in the Region identified through stratified random sampling. This quantitative descriptive-comparative and correlational research used a researcher-made questionnaire based on the guidelines of the Department of Health. Statistical computation using the mean revealed the women’s lack of knowledge and information about government health care services and their rare availing of these services. The use of ANOVA showed significant differences in their awareness and utilization according to demographics. Pearson Product Moment Correlation showed a significant relationship between awareness and utilization of health care services. Significant challenges encountered are the distance to the health center, the long waiting time for the doctor, and religion. The study recommends to strengthen advocacy programs and provide appropriate health facilities to women.

Keywords

• public healthcare services
• awareness and utilization
• emirati women
• united arab emirates