Associated Factors of Health Services Utilization for Patients with Chronic Diseases in Chengdu, China: An Application of Anderson’s Behavior Model

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the current situation of health services utilization of chronic disease patients, and analyze the factors affecting the medical services utilization according to the framework of Andersen’s behavior model, so as to provide a reference basis for rational allocation of resources, improvement of the current situation of health services utilization and scientific formulation of health policies.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 273 chronic disease patients in Chengdu, the most populated city in Southwest of China. Data were collected through structured questionnaires. We constructed health care utilization related variables based on Andersen’ behavior model. Univariate analysis and multiple logistic regression were used to analyze the influencing factors of health service utilization of chronic disease patients.

RESULTS: Hypertension and diabetes are the most common chronic disease patients experience . 28% of respondents visit doctors less than once a year due to chronic diseases. The distance to medical institutions (OR=2.237, 95% CI: 1.046-4.783, P=0.038), education (OR=15.488, 95% CI: 1.672-143.497, P=0.016), compliance with medical advice (OR=3.015, 95% CI: 1.318-6.895, P=0.009) and the stability of patients with chronic diseases (OR=0.269, 95% CI: 0.114-0.636, P=0.003) are the main factors affecting the utilization of health services for patients with chronic diseases.

CONCLUSIONS: It is suggested to promote and improve the family doctor contract service and strengthen health education, so as to increase the health service utilization and achieve the purpose of controlling the condition of patients with chronic diseases.