INVESTIGATE DISPARITIES IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH OUTCOMES, ACCESS TO CARE, AND BARRIERS TO HEALTHCARE UTILIZATION AMONG MARGINALIZED POPULATIONS, SUCH AS LOW-INCOME WOMEN AND IMMIGRANT POPULATIONS

Abstract

Objectives: This cross-sectional study investigated the disparities in reproductive health outcomes, access to treatment, and barriers to healthcare utilization among marginalized populations, of low-income and immigrant populations. Methods: For the study, 384 participants were recruited, including 307 low-income women and 77 immigrants. Using a structured questionnaire, demographic characteristics, reproductive health outcomes, and barriers to healthcare services were evaluated. Results: The findings revealed significant disparities in reproductive health outcomes, with low-income women reporting higher rates of unintended pregnancies and infertility than immigrants. In both categories, financial barriers were prevalent, whereas social and cultural barriers were more prevalent among immigrants. Compared to low-income women, immigrants exhibited a greater lack of awareness of available healthcare services. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of maternal mortality, stillbirth, or premature births. Conclusion: The study emphasized the need for targeted interventions to resolve these disparities and enhance access to reproductive health care services for marginalized populations. These findings shed light on the unique challenges encountered by low-income women and immigrants, highlighting the need to address financial barriers, increase cultural sensitivity in healthcare delivery, improve health education, and expand access to healthcare services.