DETERMINANTS OF ACCESSIBILITY AND UTILISATION OF CHILD HEALTHCARE SERVICES IN SALEM DISTRICT, TAMIL NADU
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https://doi.org/10.8224/journaloi.v75i1.1048##semicolon##
Child Healthcare Services##common.commaListSeparator## Accessibility and Utilisation##common.commaListSeparator## Healthcare Determinantsसार
This study examines the determinants of accessibility and utilisation of child healthcare services in Salem District, Tamil Nadu. The research is based on primary data collected from 150 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The study analyses demographic characteristics and evaluates accessibility and utilisation levels through a one-sample t-test. The findings reveal that child healthcare services are reasonably accessible, with significant availability of healthcare centres, essential medicines, and immunisation services. The results further indicate that utilisation of services, including regular health check-ups and timely immunisation, is statistically significant and above the average level. Socioeconomic status, education, awareness, and infrastructure facilities are identified as key determinants influencing healthcare-seeking behaviour. Despite overall satisfactory access, challenges such as transportation and waiting time require improvement. The study concludes that strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing awareness programmes, and improving service efficiency can further promote equitable and effective child healthcare utilisation in Salem District.
