Inaccessibility of health services

Modern facilities and techniques for preventive medicine, health practices and curative procedures tend to be centralized in urban areas while rural communities and low income urban settlements are often devoid of practical assistance; the nearest doctor may be miles away or only available at specific times. Infrequent visits, heavy caseloads and a high turnover of staff mean there are virtually no medical records available. Each visit requires a long repetition of physical history: old people are reluctant to go even when they are able to articulate their needs, and parents are unsure of what information and services they need for the health of their families. Such limited access occasions deep concern in residents over the accessibility of advice and care in times of emergency, although supply of emergency care and ambulance facilities would only be a partial and perhaps unrealistic solution. What is even more important is that residents lack basic information and skill in childcare, nutrition and basic prevention techniques, practical know-how and skills to maintain their own physical vitality.