Abstract:
The pandemic Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has struck the entire world. COVID-19 is “an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus” (WHO). With protocols in place, people are restricted to go out of their homes. We interviewed nine high-risk individuals whose needs are affected by their ability in accessing or receiving medical care and other functional needs before, during, or after a disaster or emergency (Public Health Emergency, 2020). Health-seeking behavior, a continuous process (Ihaji et.al, 2014), that develops as any action undertaken by individuals who perceive themselves to have a health problem or to be ill for the purpose of finding an appropriate remedy (Olenja, 2003).
We explored the health-seeking behaviors of high-risk individuals in La Trinidad, Benguet at the height of the Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic from a phenomenological standpoint.
With descriptive phenomenological research design, we used purposive sampling in collecting the data at La Trinidad, the landlocked capital of Benguet, from January to March. Using face-to-face interviews looking to it that safety protocols were followed. We used Colaizzi’s 7 Steps of Phenomenology to analyze the collected data.
High-risk individuals in La Trinidad engaged in the following health-seeking behaviors: first (1), they tried to protect or improve their health by doing everything they could at home, such as using herbal drugs and leading a balanced lifestyle. The second (2), they sought assistance from family or relatives in maintaining or improving one's health, such as asking family and relatives for favours to do things that will improve their situation. Lastly (3), they sought advice from experts in a variety of ways to help them maintain or improve their health.
Reinforcement of awareness and proper way of use about approved herbal medications and proper way to use. Family of high-risk individuals must be aware of their illness and much extends their patience in aiding. The formulation of a Reminder APK for the maintenance of their medications.
