Access to Health Care for Low-Income African American Women: Lived Experiences and Expectations

BACKGROUND Women of color and people of low socioeconomic status continue to have poorer health outcomes than their counterparts. This study explored patientsatisfaction and perceptions of low-income African American women regarding access to care. METHODS The study took a mixed-methods approach. Ninety-five women were surveyed using the Short-form Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ-18). Two sub-scales assessed satisfaction with access to care. Qualitative data were collected using one-on-one interviews (n=22) and two focus groups of community leaders. A thematic analysis was then conducted. RESULTS On a 5-point scale, patient-satisfaction with access was moderate (accessibility and convenience -2.99; financial aspects -3.35). Emerging themes included obtaining insurance, dynamics of insurance eligibility, adequacy and scope of insurance coverage, scheduling appointments, and transportation. CONCLUSION Providing insurance coverage for people with low incomes is not sufficient to close the racial/ethnic disparities gap in access to care. Understanding the challenges from patients' perspectives can help to make health care resources and services more accessible.