Abstract
The status of women’s health has a direct influence on their decision-making regarding their healthcare. This study analyses the determinants of women’s autonomy in decision making regarding their own healthcare in Tanzania. The study uses data from the Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey, and the Malaria Indicator Survey (TDHS-MIS) conducted in 2015/2016. The focus of the analysis is on married women within an age range of 15 49 years. Cross-tabulation and logistic regression model were used to examine the association between women’s demographic characteristics—such as age, education level, place of residence, marital status, wealth index, and literacy level—and their autonomy in decision-making on their own healthcare. The study found that only 19% of the married women were autonomous in making decisions about their own healthcare. The majority (81%) depended on their husbands, and/or partners; or someone else to make the final decision about their healthcare. Women with secondary and post-secondary education— as well as older, wealthier, and employed women—were autonomous (P<0.001 Odd ratio =2.30, 95% CI=2.10–2.52). Women’s autonomy in making decisions about their own healthcare can be attained if their socio-economic status is improved. Access to education and employment opportunities can lead to women’s empowerment and autonomy. Thus, to improve women’s autonomy, there is a need to promote their socio-economic status. Their autonomy in making their own decisions on their own health issues need to be considered as an important attribute for the use of health services.
Recommended Citation
masawe,, cresencia A.; mcharo, eveline , G.; and B. Masawe, Gasper
(2019)
"Women’s Autonomy in Decision-making on Own Healthcare in Tanzania,"
Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences: Vol. 8
:
No.
2
, Article 2.
Available at: https://doi.org/10.56279/jhss.v8.i2.1