Table 1 Dimensions of access to care
Penchanksy and Thomas’s dimensions of access | Survey item |
|---|---|
Availability: volume and type of services to meet the clients’ needs | Lack of access: It would be easy for me to go to a clinic1 |
Accessibility: location of the services and how easily the clients can reach the location, including cost and travel time | |
Accommodation: how services are organized (including appointment systems, telephone services) and the clients’ perception of their appropriateness | Confidentiality of services: I would be worried about getting sexual health services because my parents/guardians, family, sexual partner, or friends may find out Test results: I would be worried about test results |
Affordability: the prices of services and insurance requirements compared to the clients’ ability to pay | Cost of service: I would be worried about cost |
Acceptability: clients’ preferences for the personal characteristics and attitudes of providers | Judgment by staff: I would be worried that clinic staff may judge or disrespect me Discomfort talking with staff: I would feel comfortable talking with clinic staff about my sexual health and questions |
Awareness: client knowledge and awareness of existing services through effective communication and information strategies | Lack of knowledge about visit: I know what to expect if I go to a clinic |