Quality of Life and Treatment-Seeking Behavior of Chronic Kidney Disease Patients: A Sequential Explanatory Study as a Basis for Bedside Mental Healthcare Initiative

**Abstract** Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) represents a significant health challenge in the Philippines, where patients often face a multitude of obstacles, including limited access to healthcare, financial constraints, and social isolation. This study aimed to explore the quality of life (QOL) and treatment-seeking behavior (TSB) of CKD patients in the Philippines, with a particular focus on the factors influencing their healthcare decisions and the role of mental health in disease management. Conducted by Marie Eugenie E. Arcilla (2024) as part of a Master’s in Clinical Psychology, this research employed a sequential explanatory embedded mixed-method approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative data. The study's sample consisted primarily of male CKD patients aged 30-59 years, who reported moderate QOL with noticeable physical and mental health impacts. While participants exhibited neutral attitudes toward healthcare facilities and self-diagnosis, a weak, non-significant relationship between QOL and TSB was identified, suggesting that factors other than QOL, such as cultural beliefs and access to healthcare, played a more crucial role in treatment decisions. Further analysis revealed four key themes that influenced patients' healthcare behaviors: access to healthcare, cultural beliefs, limitations in daily activities, and social isolation. These themes indicated that patients’ ability to seek and adhere to treatment is significantly affected by financial constraints, geographical location, and societal expectations, as well as by the psychological and emotional toll of living with CKD. Interestingly, no significant differences in TSB based on age or gender were found, highlighting that CKD patients' healthcare decisions are more influenced by external factors like disease management and social support rather than demographic characteristics. This finding underscores the importance of addressing the broader social and emotional context of the disease, in addition to medical treatment. The study suggests several practical interventions to improve the care of CKD patients, including increasing government funding for healthcare, implementing culturally sensitive health education programs, and providing comprehensive rehabilitation services that address both physical and psychological needs. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the need for a bedside mental health care initiative, which would integrate psychological support into the standard care of CKD patients. This initiative aims to address the profound mental, emotional, and social challenges associated with CKD, improving not only the patients’ QOL but also their adherence to treatment protocols. In conclusion, this study highlights the complex interplay of physical, mental, and social factors affecting CKD patients in the Philippines and advocates for more holistic, patient-centered care. The findings also call for further research to explore the long-term impact of CKD on quality of life and treatment-seeking behavior, particularly in relation to demographic factors.