Women's access to healthcare services in the Jazan region of the KSA.

ABSTRACT

Objective: Our study investigated women's access to governmental healthcare in the Jazan region of the KSA. Our purpose is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the determinates of women's perceptions of their own access to healthcare, considering various demographic factors, family life, and gender role beliefs. Methods: We conducted a hierarchical regression analysis using data from a sample of 494 women. The first model included nationality, education, age, rurality, and other sociodemographic factors. The second model included the variables from the first model as well as self-ratings of physical and mental health and regular exercise. The third model included the variables from the first two models in addition to satisfaction with family life and gender role beliefs. Results: Our analysis revealed that age, nationality, employment, and having good physical and mental health, and satisfaction with family life positively predicted women's perceptions of their access to healthcare. Adherence to traditional gender roles, however, predicted less accessibility. Conclusion: Policymakers could use the outcomes of our study to enhance women's healthcare accessibility in Jazan region. The results could enhance the development and transformation of healthcare and women's health issues, particularly in understudied rural Saudi regions.