Determinants of healthcare access among older adults in Mandalay Region, Myanmar: A cross-sectional analysis
1
Issued Date
2026-05-01
Resource Type
ISSN
26730774
eISSN
26511258
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105038087099
Journal Title
Journal of Public Health and Development
Volume
24
Issue
2
Start Page
217
End Page
233
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Journal of Public Health and Development Vol.24 No.2 (2026) , 217-233
Suggested Citation
Aung Y., Chuanwan S., Hunchangsith P., Isarabhakdi P., Sawangdee Y., Völker M. Determinants of healthcare access among older adults in Mandalay Region, Myanmar: A cross-sectional analysis. Journal of Public Health and Development Vol.24 No.2 (2026) , 217-233. 233. doi:10.55131/jphd/2026/240215 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/116733
Title
Determinants of healthcare access among older adults in Mandalay Region, Myanmar: A cross-sectional analysis
Author's Affiliation
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Population ageing is accelerating globally, posing significant challenges to health systems, particularly in low-and middle-income countries. In Myanmar, access to healthcare services among older persons is under-researched, particularly in the Mandalay Region. This study examines healthcare utilization patterns and associated socio-demographic factors among older adults in three high-ageing index districts: Meikhtila, Nyaung U, and Myingyan. A cross-sectional analytical design was employed, with data collected from June to August 2021 based on a multi-stage stratified cluster sampling design. Results from a multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that older adults living in rural areas (AOR=3.24), those with a moderate ability to perform daily activities (AOR=2.86), and those experiencing hearing difficulties (AOR=1.91) were more likely to use public hospitals. In contrast, residents of Myingyan district (AOR=0.48) were less likely to access public health facilities as compared to residents of Meikhtila district. The use of private hospitals was more common among older adults with moderate self-rated health (AOR=4.36) and those residing in Myingyan (AOR=2.07). However, individuals with moderate functional ability (AOR=0.28) and those with vision difficulties (AOR=0.41) were significantly less likely to use private hospitals. The utilization of charity clinics was higher among older adults who were employed (AOR=11.06), including unpaid family workers (AOR=6), and among those who required regular follow-up care (AOR=7.62) or had vision impairments (AOR=11.35). Conversely, individuals living in rural areas (AOR=0.07) and those from wealthier households (AOR=0.05) were less likely to use charity clinics. These findings highlight the complex and uneven patterns of healthcare access among older persons in Myanmar. They underscore the importance of addressing socio-demographic disparities—particularly in rural areas and among individuals with physical or sensory limitations—to promote equitable and effective healthcare delivery for an ageing population. For example, the provision of specialized care services should be strengthened across all areas to improve access to public ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist hospitals in the Mandalay Region.