Cross-border healthcare seeking behavior: a study of Myanmar patients in Ruili, China
Journal Title: Journal of Public Health and Development - Year 2025, Vol 23, Issue 1
Abstract
With globalization and regionalization, traditional borders often present fewer barriers to the sharing of resources, particularly in the context of cross-border healthcare. This trend is driven by cost, medical technology, healthcare quality, and other factors. The study aimed to examine the overall pattern of cross-border healthcare seeking behavior among Myanmar patients in Ruili, China, evaluate the accessibility of healthcare services in China, and identify determinants of healthcare seeking behavior during the decision-making process. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire from three healthcare providers in Ruili, China, supplemented by secondary data from the Health Commission of Dehong, as well as in-depth interviews with nine Myanmar cross-border patients and were analyzed using content analysis. Results from our study indicate that in 2020 there were an estimated 30,032 Myanmar cross-border patients who sought healthcare in Ruili, China (14% in-patients and 86% out-patients): 90% used services at county-level and equivalent hospitals in Ruili, while 10% used services at primary healthcare institutions. Most of the patients were fluent speakers of the Mandarin. The in-depth interviews revealed that Myanmar cross-border patients were willing to seek healthcare services in Ruili. Analysis using Kroeger's model shows that patients primarily from the Han and Kachin/Jingpo ethnic groups (aged 20-60) seek advanced medical equipment and modern facilities in Ruili, despite the higher costs there compared to Myanmar. While staff experiences vary, accessibility of technology drives their decision, suggesting a shift in cross-border healthcare priorities. This study provides insights for improving border region healthcare systems and informs future research on cultural influences, language barriers, and broader system impacts.
Authors and Affiliations
Chenhao Wang, Morakot Meyer, Thunwadee Tachapattaworakul Suksaroj, Thae Thae Han Htwe, Aung Win Tun
Keywords
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- EP ID EP754524
- DOI 10.55131/jphd/2025/230110
- Views 9
- Downloads 0
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