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Social Determinants of Community Health Services Utilization among the Users in China: A 4-Year Cross-Sectional Study

Author

Listed:
  • Yanhong Gong
  • Xiaoxv Yin
  • Yunxia Wang
  • Yongbin Li
  • Geng Qin
  • Liqun Liu
  • Wei Zhou
  • Fujian Song
  • Xiaoxin Dong
  • Shiyi Cao
  • Chen Yang
  • Huajie Yang
  • Jun Xie
  • Junan Liu
  • Zuxun Lu

Abstract

Background: To identify social factors determining the frequency of community health service (CHS) utilization among CHS users in China. Methods: Nationwide cross-sectional surveys were conducted in 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011. A total of 86,116 CHS visitors selected from 35 cities were interviewed. Descriptive analysis and multinomial logistic regression analysis were employed to analyze characteristics of CHS users, frequency of CHS utilization, and the socio-demographic and socio-economic factors influencing frequency of CHS utilization. Results: Female and senior CHS clients were more likely to make 3–5 and ≥6 CHS visits (as opposed to 1–2 visits) than male and young clients, respectively. CHS clients with higher education were less frequent users than individuals with primary education or less in 2008 and 2009; in later surveys, CHS clients with higher education were the more frequent users. The association between frequent CHS visits and family income has changed significantly between 2008 and 2011. In 2011, income status did not have a discernible effect on the likelihood of making ≥6 CHS visits, and it only had a slight effect on making 3–5 CHS visits. Conclusion: CHS may play an important role in providing primary health care to meet the demands of vulnerable populations in China. Over time, individuals with higher education are increasingly likely to make frequent CHS visits than individuals with primary school education or below. The gap in frequency of CHS utilization among different economic income groups decreased from 2008 to 2011.

Suggested Citation

  • Yanhong Gong & Xiaoxv Yin & Yunxia Wang & Yongbin Li & Geng Qin & Liqun Liu & Wei Zhou & Fujian Song & Xiaoxin Dong & Shiyi Cao & Chen Yang & Huajie Yang & Jun Xie & Junan Liu & Zuxun Lu, 2014. "Social Determinants of Community Health Services Utilization among the Users in China: A 4-Year Cross-Sectional Study," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 9(5), pages 1-7, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0098095
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0098095
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    References listed on IDEAS

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