Exploring the Influence of Dental Expenses on Oral Health-Seeking Behaviors in A Level 1 Hospital in Malita, Davao Occidental: A Basis for Affordability and Accessibility in Dental Treatments
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.469Keywords:
Accessibility, Dental Expenses, Financial Constraints, Oral Health-Seeking Behaviors, Preventive Dental Care, Rural Healthcare, Tooth ExtractionAbstract
This study explored the influence of dental expenses on oral health-seeking behaviors among patients in a Level 1 hospital in Malita, Davao Occidental, and examined its implications for affordability and accessibility of dental care. Guided by the Health Belief Model, the study investigated how perceived treatment costs affect patients’ decisions to seek oral healthcare services. A descriptive qualitative research design was employed using purposive sampling among patients who underwent dental treatment in the selected hospital from January 2025 to December 2025. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews using an interview guide questionnaire prepared in English and Cebuano, while thematic analysis was utilized to identify recurring themes and patterns from the participants’ responses. The findings revealed that financial constraints were the primary factor influencing oral health-seeking behaviors. Patients perceived dental services as expensive relative to local income levels, resulting in delayed consultation, preference for tooth extraction over restorative procedures, and reduced utilization of preventive dental care. The study also identified adaptive behaviors such as self-medication, reliance on traditional healers, consultation with unlicensed practitioners, and dependence on advice from peers and non-professionals. Systemic and structural barriers including shortage of dental professionals, limited dental services, long waiting times, and inadequate insurance coverage further restricted healthcare accessibility. These barriers contributed to worsening oral conditions, increased tooth loss, progression of untreated diseases, and diminished quality of life among patients. The study concluded that financial hardship and limited healthcare access reinforce poor oral health-seeking behaviors in geographically isolated and disadvantaged communities. It recommends strengthening government subsidy programs, expanding dental insurance coverage, improving accessibility of public dental services, increasing dental workforce deployment, and enhancing oral health education programs. The study supports Sustainable Development Goal 3 on Good Health and Well-Being and Sustainable Development Goal 10 on Reduced Inequalities through its focus on improving equitable access to oral healthcare services. The findings also contribute to socio-economic, institutional, and community sustainability by promoting affordable, accessible, and inclusive dental healthcare in underserved rural areas.
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