# Why Do Parents Take Their Children to Informal Healthcare Providers? Insights from Bangladesh

## TL;DR

This study explores why parents in Bangladesh take their children to informal healthcare providers, finding that accessibility and trust are key factors.

## Contribution

The study provides new qualitative insights into parental motivations for using informal healthcare providers in low-resource settings.

## Key findings

- Parents choose informal providers due to geographic and financial accessibility.
- Lack of knowledge about evidence-based treatment for pediatric diarrhea was observed.
- Informal providers may hinder formal healthcare follow-ups, affecting long-term child health.

## Abstract

In low- and middle-income countries, informal healthcare providers are often the first point of contact for pediatric care. The present qualitative study, conducted in Bangladesh, was designed to explore why parents seek pediatric care from informal providers. Through in-depth interviews with 12 parents of children under 5 years of age, key drivers for visiting informal providers were identified, including geographic and financial accessibility, as well as trust and familiarity. Parents expected informal providers to offer them informed and effective treatment but did not have a clear understanding of evidence-based treatment of pediatric diarrhea. Although informal providers may meet families’ immediate needs, they can also undermine formal healthcare visits and follow-ups that are essential to supporting children’s long-term health. The study findings highlight the need for targeted health education to improve parents’ knowledge, awareness, and informed decision-making. Strengthening trust in formal providers and addressing accessibility barriers is essential to improving pediatric health outcomes in low-resource settings.