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Improving Adolescent Healthcare Access: Lessons from Burkina Faso

Improving Adolescent Healthcare Access: Lessons from Burkina Faso

Introduction

Adolescent healthcare in low-income countries often faces significant challenges, particularly in regions like Burkina Faso, where poverty is pervasive. A recent study titled Challenges and achievements in the utilization of the health system among adolescents in a region of Burkina Faso particularly affected by poverty sheds light on these issues. This blog explores the study's findings and suggests ways practitioners can enhance their skills to improve healthcare outcomes for adolescents.

Key Findings from the Study

The study involved 1,644 adolescents aged 12-20 in rural Burkina Faso. It revealed that 43.7% of participants perceived a need for healthcare in the preceding year, with a higher percentage among females (52%) compared to males (35.6%). Despite the perceived need, 92.6% accessed care, and 79% successfully utilized healthcare services.

Key predictors of healthcare need included gender, education, and urbanicity, while successful utilization was influenced by household wealth and the educational attainment of female guardians.

Implications for Practitioners

Practitioners can leverage these findings to improve healthcare access and outcomes for adolescents. Here are some strategies:

Encouraging Further Research

While the study provides valuable insights, further research is necessary to explore the underlying causes of healthcare disparities among adolescents in Burkina Faso. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in or support research that examines:

Conclusion

Improving healthcare access for adolescents in low-income regions requires a multifaceted approach that addresses educational, socioeconomic, and geographical barriers. By implementing data-driven strategies and encouraging further research, practitioners can significantly enhance healthcare outcomes for this vulnerable population.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Challenges and achievements in the utilization of the health system among adolescents in a region of Burkina Faso particularly affected by poverty.


Citation: Krohn, J., Bountogo, M., Ouermi, L., Sie, A., Baernighausen, T., & Harling, G. (2023). Challenges and achievements in the utilization of the health system among adolescents in a region of Burkina Faso particularly affected by poverty. BMC Health Services Research. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-023-10052-2
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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