Challenges in Healthcare Access for the Elderly in Harare: A Case Study of Mabvuku Polyclinic

Abstract

This study examines the multifaceted barriers to healthcare access faced by elderly populations in Mabvuku, a low-income suburb of Harare, Zimbabwe. Despite global and regional commitments to uphold older persons' rights to social protection and quality healthcare, Zimbabwe’s elderly remain marginalized due to systemic infrastructural deficiencies, financial constraints, institutional inefficiencies, and socio-cultural factors. 
Utilizing a mixed-methods approach grounded in Levesque’s Access to Healthcare Framework, Social Protection Theory, and Ageing and Vulnerability Theory, the research investigates physical, economic, institutional, and cultural obstacles impeding elderly access to healthcare services at Mabvuku Polyclinic. Quantitative data from elderly patients and qualitative insights from key informants reveal significant challenges, including chronic illness burden, medication shortages, long waiting times, transportation difficulties, age-based discrimination, and low health literacy. 
Findings suggest that weak policy implementation, inadequate resource allocation, and diminished community support exacerbate these barriers. The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive, age-friendly health system reforms, strengthened social protection mechanisms, community-based interventions, and policy advocacy to promote equitable healthcare access for Zimbabwe’s aging population. 
Recommendations highlight the importance of infrastructural improvements, targeted training for healthcare workers, culturally sensitive health promotion, and multi-sectoral collaboration to address systemic gaps and enhance the dignity and well-being of elderly persons in urban Zimbabwe. This research provides empirical evidence to inform policy reforms and community initiatives aimed at achieving sustainable and inclusive elderly healthcare in resource-limited urban contexts.