Health-seeking pathway and factors leading to delays in tuberculosis diagnosis in West Pokot County, Kenya: A grounded theory study

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207995
• Publication Date: 2018-11-28T13:47:50Z
• Authors: Grace Wambura Mbu...; Charles Owour Olu...; Tom Gesora Ondicho
• Keywords: Explanatory model; Constructivist grounded theory; Participant Observation

Background Patients' health-seeking behaviour can lead to delays in tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis, however little is known about the experiences and treatment pathways of patients diagnosed with TB Kenya. The aim this study explore health seeking practices factors contributing delay diagnosis. Methods This was based on explorative qualitative research using a constructivist grounded theory approach. A total 61 intensive phase were recruited as informants study. Six focus group discussions 15 in-depth interviews used collect data. Data analysed through three step coding Results Participants adopted different they sought care from pluralistic system involving traditional healers, herbalists, private clinic, drug shops public sector. revealed an explanatory model leading illustrated by participant's expression "I suffered for long time." comprised categories that delays, namely individual, social-cultural structural factors. Conclusion There need improve timely diagnosis innovative approaches such case finding. Similarly, health-care should decentralize services much possible offer free diagnostic increase accessibility.