Application and Use of Andersen’s Behavioral Model as Theoretical Framework: A Systematic Literature Review from 2012–2021

Abstract

Background: Anderson’s model provides a theoretical structure to understand use of health service. This scoping review aimed to examine the application of Andersen’s behavioral model in different studies. Methods: Related studies that were published between 2012 and 2021 were retrieved by searching PubMed, Science Direct, and CINAHL databases. Fourteen studies satisfied the criteria for inclusion. Results: The reviewed studies specified that the Andersen’s Model has been used in numerous parts of the health system and concerning different illnesses. The reviewed studies revealed differences in the factors examined. Most of the studies examined age, education, gender, marital status, and employment status as predisposing factors, and income, medical insurance, and living location as enabling factors. While, the chronic illnesses and perceived general health status were examined as need factors, in addition to an extensive diversity of health conditions and illnesses. Though the associations were established among the key factors tested in the reviewed studies and health care service use, the findings were inconsistent. In the reviewed studies, the setting and the study population characteristics looked to have a strong influence on the direction and strength of these associations. Conclusion: Merely a slight number of common factors were examined and there were enormous differences in the methods by which these factors were classified. Future and primary studies are necessary to deepen our understanding of the use of health care services and the complexity of the Andersen's behavioral model.