Research Article
Exploring Factors for Self-Referral to Private Hospitals for Childbirth, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study
Aminu Mohammed*,
Neima Ridwan Abdu,
Leyla Abrar Bedru,
Bezabih Amsalu,
Abdusellam Yimer
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2025
Pages:
1-9
Received:
13 September 2024
Accepted:
24 January 2025
Published:
13 March 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.jfmhc.20251101.11
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Abstract: Background: There is a dearth of research regarding the reasons behind self-referrals from public to private hospitals, both nationally and within the research community. Purpose: This study aimed at exploring factors for self-referral to private hospitals for childbirth in the Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. Methods: A qualitative design was applied for this study. Study settings and participants were selected through purposive sampling techniques and interviewed individually using an interview guide, with the assistance of a voice recorder and field notes. The interviews were then transcribed verbatim, analyzed using an inductive thematic approach. The study was conducted in three private hospitals between August and September 2023. A total of thirteen participants (self-referred to a private hospital for childbirth) were involved in the study and interviewed over a two-month period. Findings: Six main themes were identified regarding the reasons for self-referral from public hospitals to private hospitals for childbirth: hospital resources, staff attitude, staff communication, participants’ perceptions, community rumors, and autonomous decisions. Conclusions: Six main themes emerged regarding the reasons for self-referral from public hospitals to private hospitals for childbirth: hospital resources, staff attitude, staff communication, participants’ perceptions, community rumors, and autonomous decisions. Therefore, it is imperative to develop culturally sensitive and inclusive antenatal care programs and conduct additional multi-perspective research to better address these factors.
Abstract: Background: There is a dearth of research regarding the reasons behind self-referrals from public to private hospitals, both nationally and within the research community. Purpose: This study aimed at exploring factors for self-referral to private hospitals for childbirth in the Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. Methods: A qualitative design was applied for this...
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