OBSTACLES TO ACCESS TO MODERN HEALTHCARE: A STUDY OF THE EXPERIENCES AND PERCEPTIONS OF THE INDIGENOUS PYGMEE PEOPLE OF THE YAHUMA TERRITORY IN THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

Santhos Lobwa Bosongo*, Stany Bitaboto Geninga, Didier Chuy Kalombola, Bolinda wa Bolinda, Faustin Chenge Mukaleng

Background: Despite global recognition of access to healthcare as a fundamental right, many indigenous communities such as the Yahuma Pygmies in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) face significant barriers. Marginalized and geographically isolated, these indigenous people face multidimensional barriers that affect their access to modern healthcare. The aim of this study is to understand and analyze the barriers to access to modern healthcare as experienced and perceived by Yahuma pygmies in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Methods: Using a phenomenological qualitative approach, we were able to focus on the subjective meanings that individuals attribute to their experiences, with an emphasis on their day-to-day lived experience. Results: High healthcare costs, geographical challenges such as the remoteness of health centers and the General Hospital, and socio-cultural and dietary concerns complicate pygmies' access to modern health structures. Distrust reinforces pygmies' reluctance to seek modern care. Conclusion: It should be noted that the above-mentioned interconnected obstacles perpetuate the health marginalization of pygmies. An integrated approach, respecting their cultural specificities, is essential to improve their access to modern healthcare.