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.