Between formal healthcare and non-formal care utilization: Factors influencing health-seeking behaviors among mothers in a selected barangay in camarines sur — A quantitative descriptive-correlational study.

Mothers in rural communities play a vital role in making decisions about family health, including the choice to use formal healthcare services, non-formal care practices, or a combination of both. This study aimed to determine the health-seeking behaviors of mothers in a selected barangay in Camarines Sur and examine the factors influencing their choice of healthcare practices. It also sought to identify the relationship between these factors and their health-seeking behaviors.

The study used a quantitative, non-experimental, descriptive–correlational design involving 53 mothers aged 25 to 45 years selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered using validated instruments, including the Health Care–Seeking Behavior Questionnaire (HCSBQ), Wake Forest Physician Trust Scale (WFPTS), and Duke University Religion Index (DUREL). Descriptive statistics and Pearson Product–Moment Correlation Coefficient were used for analysis.

Findings showed high levels of formal healthcare, non-formal care, and combined care utilization. Mothers reported using professional healthcare services alongside traditional remedies and non-formal care practices, indicating an integrated approach to managing health concerns. Trust in healthcare providers, accessibility, and religious involvement were found to significantly influence health-seeking behaviors, with notable relationships among these variables.

The study concludes that mothers adopt a flexible approach to healthcare depending on situational needs. It is recommended that healthcare providers strengthen culturally sensitive programs, improve access to services, enhance health education, and promote collaboration between formal healthcare and non-formal care systems to improve health outcomes.

Keywords: Health-Seeking Behavior, Formal Healthcare, Non-Formal Care, Mothers, Combined Care.