# Equitable Healthcare Access for Type 2 Diabetes Patients Under a Low-Income Group Health Care Scheme: A Sustainable Development Goal Perspective

## TL;DR

This study examines how access to diabetes care varies among low-income patients in Malaysia, highlighting factors like geography and education that affect healthcare use.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into equitable healthcare access for T2DM patients under a low-income health care scheme in Malaysia.

## Key findings

- Elderly, retirees, and those with average incomes showed higher healthcare service utilisation.
- Ethnic diversity influenced health behaviours and healthcare-seeking patterns.
- Geographical proximity was important for service accessibility and patient satisfaction.

## Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study is to explore the factors influencing access to healthcare services among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients enrolled in the PEKA B40 programme at a public health clinic in Melaka, Malaysia. It aims to examine how key dimensions—availability, accessibility, accommodation, and acceptance—affect patients’ experiences and the utilisation of diabetes-related healthcare services. This study also seeks to identify gaps and challenges within the current healthcare delivery system, particularly for low-income populations, to inform strategies for improving equitable and sustainable access to care. Methods: This study was conducted in a public health clinic in Melaka, Malaysia. Purposive sampling was used among T2DM patients under the “Health Care Scheme for Group B40” programme in a public health clinic in Melaka, Malaysia. The study included participants with at least a 6-month history of T2DM to ensure substantial experience in accessing healthcare services. Results: Fifteen patients participated in this study. Elderly individuals, retirees, and those with average incomes demonstrated higher healthcare service utilisation. Ethnic diversity was crucial, revealing its impact on health behaviours and healthcare-seeking patterns. Primary or secondary education levels among participants highlighted the necessity for targeted health literacy efforts. Conclusions: This study highlighted notable awareness and satisfaction among patients concerning the availability, accessibility, and accommodation of services, particularly emphasising the importance of geographical proximity in healthcare services. However, challenges faced by elderly individuals in accessing social support are also highlighted. The potential of enhancing the amenities of healthcare facilities to improve patient experiences is also reflected in our results. These insights provide evidence for the effectiveness of the Malaysian healthcare system in catering to a diverse demographic and can also be helpful in refining healthcare strategies and further optimising patient-centred care in Malaysia.