“Resilience amidst challenges”: Healthcare users’ experiences of access and utilisation of primary healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic in southwestern Uganda
Qualitative research reveals resilience in accessing health services despite COVID-19 barriers in southwestern Uganda.
Key Points
Healthcare users faced significant barriers accessing primary healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet they demonstrated resilience.
Participants reported utilizing community sensitization efforts and positive health worker attitudes to access care despite fears of infection.
The study employed in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to explore healthcare utilization experiences among adults in Masaka district.
Systemic challenges like medication shortages and workforce limitations during the pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities within the primary healthcare system.