Womens Health » A » Access to Health Care » Structural barriers

Structural barriers

July 28, 2011

Availability

Access to health service, in particular, a regular source of medical care, is contingent upon services being available where and when needed by the service population. Barriers based on availability, for example, occur when services are located only in more urban areas creating barriers for remote rural populations or during hours when those working are unable to come for services. Lack of access to the appropriate health service and extended waiting times are also examples of access limited by availability.

Transportation

Lack of transportation is frequently cited as a barrier to access to care. Innovative approaches to support bus fare and transportation vans have been developed to complement basic medical services. These efforts may not be sustained since they are not a reimbursable service. Women frequently encounter this barrier when they are dependent on others for transportation.

SEE ALSO: Health insurance, Medicaid, Medicare