Challenges to dengue treatment access and delivery at Savar Upazila Health Complex, Dhaka, Bangladesh: a concurrent mixed-methods study

Abstract

Introduction: Dengue remains a critical public health challenge in Bangladesh, particularly during peak seasons when healthcare facilities encounter high demand. A concurrent mixedmethods research examines the challenges that patients face in accessing treatment and healthcare providers experience in delivering care at the Savar Upazila Health Complex in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Method: Quantitative data on satisfaction with services were gathered from 167 dengue patients, through semi-structured surveys, while qualitative data were obtained from 8 key informant interviews with healthcare providers. Findings: Quantitative findings indicated that 64.07% of dengue patients received adequate details about diagnostic tests, and 77.25% of dengue patients perceived the facility as wellequipped. However, only 34.73% of patients expressed satisfaction with the healthcare services they received. Additionally, 55.09% of patients reported long waiting times, 57.49% rushed consultations, and 61.08% difficulties making appointments as important service delivery challenges that need to be addressed. More than half (52.10%) of patients shared financial issue as an important barrier to accessing treatment on time. Qualitative findings revealed critical shortages of resources, including beds, medical supplies, and diagnostic tools, particularly during peak dengue seasons as important challenges for the efficient delivery of services. The healthcare providers highlighted operational inefficiencies, overcrowded wards, and limited post-hours diagnostic services as key challenges. Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate significant gaps in service delivery that influence patient satisfaction and effective care. These challenges include inadequate infrastructure, insufficient medical supplies, long waiting times, and rushed. Recommended interventions include expanding facility capacity to serve more patients, increasing healthcare staff, and ensuring consistent availability of diagnostic tools and other medical supplies. Engaging the community through focused awareness campaigns is also crucial to enhancing treatment-seeking and disease-prevention practices.