Divine Intervention or Medical Consultation? Exploring Health-seeking Choices in Ghana's Religious Gated Communities in Ghana

This study investigates the health-seeking behaviors of residents in religious gated communities in Ghana, focusing on the relationship between religious beliefs and healthcare decisions. Using qualitative research design, the study explores the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of individuals in Agogo (Saviour Church of Ghana) and New Winneba (Chapers). Fifteen participants were interviewed and data analyzed thematically. Residents’ understanding of health encompass physical fitness, absence of disease, and optimal bodily functioning. Healthcare is perceived both as daily self-care practices and formal medical interventions. Factors influencing health-seeking behaviors include income, healthcare services accessibility, perceived severity of illness, and religious beliefs. Some residents attribute illness to spiritual causes and prioritize faith-based healing, or religious leaders’ guidance over conventional medical treatment. There is, therefore, the need for public health strategies to address the unique socioeconomic, cultural, and religious dynamics of these communities to improve health outcomes.