Facilitators and barriers of cardiovascular disease screening services utilization among healthcare workers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: A qualitative perspective

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with a significant burden in low- and middle-income countries, including Tanzania. Healthcare workers are the primary source of information and interventions. However, there is limited documentation about the self-utilization of cardiovascular disease screening services among healthcare workers. To explore facilitators and barriers of cardiovascular disease screening services utilization among healthcare workers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A descriptive qualitative case study design was employed, and data were collected between 20th May and 25th June 2024 using a semi-structured interview guide. We employed a purposive sampling technique to recruit 14 participants, with the principle of data saturation as guidance. A thematic analysis approach was used during the analysis process. The analysis revealed two themes: ‘Facilitators of the utilization of cardiovascular disease screening services’ and ‘Barriers encountered in the utilization of cardiovascular disease screening services’. The themes were supported by subthemes as follows: positive perception of cardiovascular disease screening services, health-seeking behavior, accessibility to services, and risk awareness and utilization of available screening opportunities as facilitators; and resource limitation, self-motivating attitude, perceived risks and cultural factors, and lack of organizational support as barriers. Healthcare workers acknowledged the importance of cardiovascular disease screening and the accessibility of the services. However, limited resources, perceived risks, and lack of organizational support hinder the utilization of screening services. Health facilities should promote screening campaigns and encourage the development of a habit of regular health check-ups among healthcare workers.