Access to Reproductive Health Care Services for Women in the Southern Region of Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACT

A study of 151 women in the southern region of Saudi Arabia revealed that most women (94.2%) encountered at least one obstacle in accessing health care. Concerns ranged from finding a female health care professional (72.2%) to obtaining permission from her husband (25.2%). Furthermore, data indicate that women in this region face problems related to transportation, as they are not permitted to drive (51.7%); there is also a reluctance to access health services on their own (53%). Freedom of movement will empower women in Saudi Arabia to minimize problems in accessing health care.

KEYWORDS:

• access to health care
• transportation
• female health care professionals
• Saudi Arabia

Acknowledgments

The author thanks the general staff and nurse-in-charge of the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinics. Data collection was facilitated with the help of the nursing lecturer, Ms. Sajedah Al Qudah. Special acknowledgment to Ms. Rona Marx for the English editing of the article.