BARRIERS TO UTILIZATION OF EYE CARE SERVICES AMONG ORANG ASLI ADULTS IN KUANTAN, PAHANG: A GROUNDED THEORY ANALYSIS

Abstract

Aims: The purpose of this study is to investigate reasons for not utilizing the eye care services among Orang Asli adults in Kuantan, Pahang.

Methodology: Two Orang Asli were interviewed from each of six villages according to an in-depth semi-structured questionnaire. The interview is ended after saturation has been reached. Responses obtained were then analysed using grounded theory analysis.

Results: The percentage of Orang Asli who do not utilize the eye care services is 75% from the total 24 participants interviewed. The reasons for not utilizing the eye care services are divided into three main themes that are lack of knowledge, not enough time and expensive cost of service. Lack of knowledge which accounts for 87.5% is found to be the main reason for Orang Asli to not utilize the eye care services followed by lack of time with 8.33% and expensive cost of services with 4.17%.

Conclusion: Lack of awareness on eye health has been identified to result in lack knowledge on the importance of eye health. Further efforts should be carried out to increase health awareness including different approaches such as distribution of brochures from door to door and free eye screening campaign.

Keywords: eye care services utilization, eye health disparity, barriers, indigenous people