RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS AND HEALTH BELIEF MODEL PERCEPTIONS IN MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURY TREATMENT

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the relationship between socioeconomic factors and community perceptions of musculoskeletal injury management based on the components of the Health Belief Model in Tanah Datar Regency. A cross-sectional observational analytic design was conducted from November to December 2023. A total of 352 respondents were selected using consecutive sampling and completed the study questionnaire. Bivariate analysis was performed to examine the relationships between education, occupation, and income and the perception components of the Health Belief Model. The findings showed that education, occupation, and income were associated with perceived susceptibility. Education was also associated with perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and cues to action. Occupation was associated with perceived barriers, while income was associated with self-efficacy. No significant relationships were found between several other perception components and the socioeconomic factors examined. These findings indicate that socioeconomic factors, particularly education, are associated with variations in community perceptions regarding musculoskeletal injury management. Individuals with higher educational levels tended to perceive greater benefits of medical treatment compared with traditional treatment. These findings highlight the relevance of socioeconomic characteristics in understanding community perceptions and health-related decision-making regarding musculoskeletal injury management.