Self-efficacy in treatment seeking and compliance among leprosy patients in Costa Rica

Abstract

Abstract: The aim of this research is to Identify self-efficacy related to search and administration of treatment in patients with leprosy or who have suffered from leprosy, based on Health Belief Model in Costa Rica. Methodology: a qualitative study was carried out, using in-depth semi-structured interview technique based on leprosy diagnosis and treatment in sociodemographic, social and cultural context. The study found that participants have situation expectations of outcomes and perceived self-efficacy in treatment seeking and administration. The participants in this study attributed various causes to leprosy, on the one hand, causes related to factors external to the person's behavior and, therefore, they believe that they could not prevent its appearance. All participants made reference that nowadays, people do not die from leprosy because there is a treatment. Treatment compliance was the main expectation for treating the disease. Interventions that improve self-efficacy should be a priority since it will allow people to overcome barriers, starting with acute care, primary care and treatment compliance.