Drivers and Cultural Influences on Healthcare-Seeking Behaviors Among Ethnic Minority Older Adults in Rural Southwestern China: A Descriptive Qualitative Study.

Background and Aims: Understanding the healthcare-seeking behaviors of minority older adults is crucial for advancing health equity and enhancing health outcomes. To date, no qualitative research has specifically examined the healthcare-seeking behaviors of ethnic minority older adults in China. The study seeks to elucidate the driving factors and cultural influences on health-seeking behaviors among ethnic minority older adults in rural Southwestern China. Methods: Guided by the integrated symptom-response framework-which explains how individuals interpret and respond to symptoms-a qualitative descriptive study was conducted, involving semi-structured interviews with sixteen adults. The study's interview guide and thematic analysis were informed by this theoretical perspective. Results: Five themes emerged from the study. These included (1) self-care for minor ailments, (2) seeking healthcare for serious conditions, (3) interpretation of health-related factors, (4) understanding of diseases/symptoms within traditional ethnic cultural contexts, and (5) dynamic considerations based on experience and reality. Conclusion: The findings of this study offer critical insights for healthcare professionals and policymakers on the cultural determinants impacting the healthcare-seeking behaviors of ethnic minority older adults. By understanding these factors, targeted interventions and policies can be implemented to enhance cultural sensitivity within healthcare services.