Accessibility to Healthcare Services for Gender-Based Violence Survivors in Rural Areas of Tanzania: A Case of Kasulu District.

Baraka, Tausi (2025) Accessibility to Healthcare Services for Gender-Based Violence Survivors in Rural Areas of Tanzania: A Case of Kasulu District. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study aimed to assess the accessibility of healthcare services for gender-based violence survivors in Kasulu District. This study was guided by three specific objectives, to identify the available healthcare service for GBV survivors, to explore the healthcare service-related challenges facing GBV survivors, to assess the impact of procedural challenges on the accessibility of healthcare services for survivors of GBV. The study was informed by the Ecological Systems Theory. Mixed method approach study designs were used. The sample size of 282 respondent were recruited in the study. The data were collected through Questionnaires, FGDs, and in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analysed through SPSS while the qualitative data were analysed through the thematic analysis approach. The study findings revealed that 64% of GBV survivors accessed medical treatment, 36% accessed psychological counselling, and 31% accessed legal support. Key services provided include. These services are largely centralized at the One Stop Centre (OSC), a facility where survivors can access multiple forms of support within a single location. The study revealed significant challenges facing GBV survivors in accessing healthcare services; as lack of awareness of available services, financial barriers, understaffing, lack of enough medical equipment, long distance to the healthcare facilities, and long waiting times. The impact of these procedural challenge revealed that delayed access to care and the potential discouragement from seeking services altogether. Recommendations are made for government agencies, and other stakeholders to collaborate in creating a supportive environment that addresses the unique needs of survivors. Key words: Healthcare services, Gender based Violence, GBV Survivors.

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