Determinants of health information seeking behavior among people at risk of statelessness in Ghana

Abstract

Health Information Seeking Behavior [HISB] has developed into one of the crucial components of a person’s awareness and responsibility for their health. However, populations at risk of statelessness are often excluded from opportunities and services, particularly those related to health. Using Longo’s Model and the Health Belief Model [HBM], this study investigated their HISB and associated determinants, with emphasis on the individual’s socio-demographic, psychosocial and health belief factors. The study’s data came from a cross-sectional household survey undertaken in the Awutu Senya East Municipality and Gomoa East District of Ghana’s Central Region between March 9 and June 26, 2021. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression models helped establish the prevalence and predictors of HISB from a sample of 384 at-risk individuals. Prevalence of health information seeking [HIS] was nearly 44% and associated with sex, age, level of education, and internet literacy. Additionally, various constructs of psychosocial resources [self-esteem and trust in health information] and health beliefs [perceived severity, benefits, and perceived barriers] were associated with HIS within our sample. To improve positive HISB, healthcare providers and health promoters must tailor health information to different socio-demographic groups, focus on building trust and rapport with patients, offer social support, and address psychosocial barriers to HIS. Finally, providing accurate and relevant health information must be prioritised.