Factors shaping health-seeking behavior among Myanmar migrant workers in Chiang Rai, Thailand

BACKGROUND: Migrant workers face multiple health risks and barriers to healthcare access, influenced by socioeconomic, occupational, and legal factors. Myanmar migrant workers constitute a significant portion of Chiang Rai Province’s labor force, yet their health-seeking behavior remains understudied. This study aimed to assess the health-seeking behavior of Myanmar migrant workers in Chiang Rai and identify factors influencing healthcare utilization, using Andersen’s healthcare utilization model. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2024 in ten Myanmar migrant communities in Mueang District, Chiang Rai, Thailand. A total of 355 participants, aged 18–60 years, were selected using proportionate random sampling. Data were collected through a validated, interviewer-administered questionnaire in the Myanmar language. Binary logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with healthcare utilization, with results expressed as odds ratios (ORs) and adjusted odds ratios (AORs) at 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, four variables were associated with healthcare utilization. Individuals aged ≥ 36 years were more likely to utilize healthcare services than those aged 18–35 years (AOR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.11–2.64). Participants with monthly expenditures > 3,000 THB had higher odds of healthcare utilization (AOR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.27–3.03), and those working > 8 h per day also showed greater utilization (AOR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.07–2.97). Health insurance coverage demonstrated a marginal association with healthcare utilization (AOR = 1.60, 95% CI: 0.99–2.58, p = 0.054), suggesting a potential enabling effect despite borderline statistical significance. The most common major illnesses reported in the past six months were musculoskeletal disorders (23.4%) and injuries (18.8%). CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare utilization among Myanmar migrant workers is shaped by demographic and enabling factors, particularly age, financial capacity, working conditions, and health insurance coverage. Strengthening health insurance schemes, regulating working hours, and enhancing migrant-inclusive community health programs are essential for improving equitable healthcare access in cross-border settings.