Low-income Canadians' experiences with health-related services: implications for health care reform.
This study investigated the use of health-related services by low-income Canadians living in two large cities, Edmonton and Toronto. Interview data collected from low-income people, service providers and managers, advocacy group representatives, and senior-level public servants were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Findings indicate that, in addition to health care policies and programs, a broad range of policies, programs, and services relating to income security, recreation, and housing influence the ability of low-income Canadians to attain, maintain, and enhance their health. Furthermore, the manner in which health-related services are delivered plays a key role in low-income people's service-use decisions. We conclude the paper with a discussion of the health and social policy implications of the findings, which are particularly relevant within the context of recent health care reform discussions in Canada.
Williamson
Deanna L
DL
Department of Human Ecology, University of Alberta, 302 Human Ecology Building, Edmonton, Alta., Canada T6G 2N1. deanna.williamson@ualberta.ca
Stewart
Miriam J
MJ
Hayward
Karen
K
Letourneau
Nicole
N
Makwarimba
Edward
E
Masuda
Jeff
J
Raine
Kim
K
Reutter
Linda
L
Rootman
Irving
I
Wilson
Douglas
D
D000416:Alberta; D002170:Canada; D005260:Female; D018166:Health Care Reform; D006296:Health Services; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D009313:National Health Programs; D009864:Ontario; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011203:Poverty