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International Journal for Equity in Health
Published in: International Journal for Equity in Health 1/2015

Open Access 01-12-2015 | Research

Perceived barriers to healthcare for persons living in poverty in Quebec, Canada: the EQUIhealThY project

Authors: Christine Loignon, Catherine Hudon, Émilie Goulet, Sophie Boyer, Marianne De Laat, Nathalie Fournier, Cristina Grabovschi, Paula Bush

Published in: International Journal for Equity in Health | Issue 1/2015

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Abstract

Introduction

Ensuring access to timely and appropriate primary healthcare for deprived patients is an issue facing all countries, even those with universal healthcare systems. There is a paucity of information on how patients living in a context of material and social deprivation perceive barriers in the healthcare system. This study combines the perspectives of persons living in poverty and of healthcare providers to explore barriers to responsive care for underserved persons with a view to developing equity-focused primary care.

Methods

In this participatory action research we used photovoice, together with a method known as ‘merging of knowledge and practice’ developed by ATD Fourth World, an international community organization working to eradicate poverty. The study was conducted in two teaching primary care practices in the Canadian province of Quebec. Participants consisted of 15 health professionals and six members of ATD Fourth World; approximately 60 group meetings were held. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis, in part with the involvement of persons living in poverty.

Results

Three main barriers to responsive care in a context of poverty were highlighted by all participants: the difficult living conditions of people living in poverty, the poor quality of interactions between providers and underserved patients, and the complexity of healthcare system organization and functioning.

Conclusion

Our research revealed that unhealthy living conditions prevent persons living in poverty from accessing quality healthcare and maintaining good health. Also, the complexity of the healthcare system’s organization and functioning has a negative impact on the interactions with healthcare providers. Changes in policy and practice are needed to address those barriers and to achieve greater equity and provide more responsive care for persons living in poverty.
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Metadata
Title
Perceived barriers to healthcare for persons living in poverty in Quebec, Canada: the EQUIhealThY project
Authors
Christine Loignon
Catherine Hudon
Émilie Goulet
Sophie Boyer
Marianne De Laat
Nathalie Fournier
Cristina Grabovschi
Paula Bush
Publication date
01-12-2015
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
International Journal for Equity in Health / Issue 1/2015
Electronic ISSN: 1475-9276
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12939-015-0135-5

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