Factors and barriers affecting the quality of and access to Health Care in Darién Panama

Abstract

Currently, the situation in Darién presents a panorama of inequity and vulnerability in health care.  Health centers are insufficient and, in many cases, do not have the necessary equipment and personnel to meet the needs of the population. (Sánchez et al., 2021).  The relevance of the problem lies in the fact that this situation of neglect and lack of access not only affects the physical health of the inhabitants of Darién, but also their social and economic development.  This research arises from the need to make visible the specific conditions of the health system in Darién, given that its remote location and limited communication channels have historically generated significant inequality compared to other provinces in the country.  The importance of this work lies in its potential to positively impact at a social and institutional level.  This work allowed us to identify various critical factors that affect the quality and access to health services in Darién, Panama.  Socioeconomic factors, such as widespread poverty and low educational levels, significantly limit the population's ability to access medical services and understand the importance of preventive care.  Regarding the feasibility of this project, the research is viable and is supported by a methodology that considers both the analysis of quantitative data and qualitative experiences and the testimony of professionals and users of health services in Darién.  This research will be developed with a mixed approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods through the analysis of secondary data.