Health-seeking behaviour and determinants among tribal communities in a rural district of West Bengal.

Abstract

BackgroundAim: To assess the health-seeking behaviour of rural tribal populations in the district of Bankura, and to identify the key factors influencing their healthcare utilization patterns. MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 522 adult tribal participants. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested interview schedule focusing on demographic details, healthcare preferences, access to services, and perceived barriers.  Analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0, with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests applied. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify significant predictors of modern healthcare utilization. Results Most participants were aged 31–45 years, with a near-equal gender distribution. Belief in traditional healers was moderate in 44%, strong in 26%, and supernatural beliefs in 25%. Treatment preference was split: modern medicine (50%), traditional (40%), and mixed (10%). Fifty percent sought care for mild symptoms, 30% delayed until severe, and 20% depended on illness type. Government facilities were the first contact for 55%, traditional healers 20%, and others 25%. Forty percent delayed >3 days to seek care. Preventive care uptake varied: vaccination (90%) was high, deworming (20%) and BP/sugar screening (20%) were low. Maternal-child health coverage was better: antenatal care (75%), institutional deliveries (90%), and immunization (90%). Major barriers were lack of transport (75%), long waiting times (70%), distance (65%), and cost (60%). Past experiences with modern healthcare were positive in 60%, negative in 40%. Complete recovery was associated with a preference for modern medicine (OR 4.41, RR 2.06). Men, higher education, higher income, business occupation, and proximity to facilities favoured modern healthcare; women, low education/income, and distance favoured mixed modalities.  Conclusion Healthcare utilization among the tribal population is influenced by low education, limited disease awareness, cultural beliefs, gender norms, and structural barriers. Recommendations To strengthen health education and literacy programs focused on common diseases, danger signs, and preventive care