Predictors of the Unmet Healthcare Needs of Roma with Chronic Diseases in Jordan

Abstract

Objective: The study goal is to investigate the factors of unmet healthcare demands among Jordan's Roma community with chronic illnesses. Study design and Methods: A cross – sectional descriptive survey was conducted; data collection was carried out through in-person interviews (N=347 Jordanian Roma) using a structured questionnaire based on the Canadian Community Health Survey. Results: The majority (89.1%) of participants were married and nearly all (99.7%) self-identified as Illiterate. More than half of study sample did not have health insurance (55.0%). Almost all (99.7%) participants reported at least one unmet healthcare needs during the past 12 months. The following variables were significantly associated with unmet healthcare needs; being divorced/widowed, not having health insurance, residence, duration of chronic diseases, self-perception of mental health, food insecurity, and satisfaction with the healthcare services. A closer look at each individual predictor revealed that just (9) of the (21) variables found by the Anderson model were significant. These are the following: [Marriage status (Divorced/widowed) against (Single): (β = -.15, p =.02]. Categories for health insurance (No, Yes); (β = -.13, p .00). Compared to Almafraq, the number of residents living at home was lower in Madaba (β = -.19, p .000), Irbid (β =.17, p .000), and Amman (β = -.16, p =.02). Chronic disease duration (Years); (β = -.13, p =.01). Health care services satisfaction (Continuous: 0–10) (β = –.10, p =.03). Self-perception of mental health (poor/fair/good/very good), (β = -.16, p =.000). Score for food insecurity (Continuous: 0–16) (β =.36, p 0.00( Seven of the nine major factors previously identified have an inverse relationship with unmet healthcare requirements. Consequently, as these factors rise, unmet healthcare requirements decline.Conclusion. The high prevalence of unmet healthcare requirements among Jordanian Roma makes them more susceptible to other ailments. To increase this community's access to and use of healthcare services, extensive initiatives should be put into place. Additionally, to take steps to raise their social standing and incorporate them into society.