Assessment of Health-Seeking Behavior among the Deped Employees From a Public School District in the Division of Cavite: Basis for Project Health

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Teachers as effective human forces in development and evolution of our society should be given proper health education, so they will know how to take good care of themselves. However, most teachers do not give time on understanding their body system and pay less attention on their health condition. This study aimed to assess the number of teachers who had health-seeking behaviors.

METHODS

This study used survey research design. It involved 624 Department of Education (Department of Education) employees from District of Rosario, Cavite. Interviews, vital signs assessments, physical assessments and medical laboratory results were used to gather the data.

RESULTS

Results revealed that out of 624 employees, 322 (51.60%) were found to have health seeking behaviors. Among the illnesses recorded were hypertension, heart diseases, pulmonary tuberculosis, urinary tract infection, error of refraction, and diabetes. Common ailments recorded were sore throat, common colds, headache, toothache, minor wounds, and cough.

DISCUSSIONS

The results of the study showed that Department of Education employees differed in their approaches in attending to their existing medical conditions. Most of the respondents have sought online consultations, took alternative medicines and/or over-the-counter medications, followed cultural beliefs, and expressed that their self-care needs were the least of their priorities. The reasons for their health seeking behavior were lack of time, heavy workload, and financial constraints.