Social Work Intervention Model for Improving Health-Seeking Behaviour of Interstate Migrant Workers in Kerala

Background: Interstate migrant workers in Kerala face numerous barriers to accessing healthcare, leading to poor health outcomes. This study explores the health-seeking behaviour (HSB) of migrant workers and proposes a comprehensive social work intervention model to improve their healthcare access and outcomes. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was utilised for this contextual analysis, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative in-depth interviews. The quantitative component involved 353 migrant workers, while the qualitative component included interviews with 12 migrant workers (6 male and 6 female) in Kochi. Data were analysed to identify the factors shaping the HSB of migrant workers. Results: Findings revealed that common health problems included skin issues (97.5%), body pain (36.5%), and low appetite (40.2%). Migrants primarily accessed medical/drug stores (56.1%) and private hospitals (16.7%) for healthcare. Key barriers to healthcare included unaffordable costs (34%), unavailability of nearby facilities (29.2%), long waiting hours (53.8%), lack of free medicines (49.2%), and language barriers (64.8%). The qualitative analysis highlighted significant themes such as cognition and awareness, cost factors, and social factors influencing HSB. Conclusions: The study identifies critical barriers and facilitators of HSB among interstate migrant workers in Kerala. A proposed intervention model includes health education programs, deployment of community health workers, mobile health clinics, employer engagement, training for healthcare providers, strengthening social support networks, and policy advocacy. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance HSB and improve health outcomes for migrant workers. Future research and stakeholder collaboration are essential for effective implementation.