Gender Inequalities in Health Status and Service Utilization of Migrant Workers in Three Large Industrial Zones of Vietnam

Introduction: The tremendous growth in the industrial base of Vietnam, thanks to rapid economic development, has led to the establishment of a substantial and growing migrant workforce. However, migrant workers often experience insufficient access to healthcare and inadequate living conditions and increasing levels of health-related gender inequalities in the workplace. Understanding and resolving problems within the workforce are vital for healthy and sustainable development.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four central manufacturing regions in December 2019. A random sample of 1200 factory employees participated in the study. Disparities based on gender among migrated and non-migrated factory laborers in their health status and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) were assessed, including trends, hospital accessibility, and current health-related problems.Results: The mean score of the EQ-5D index among samples was 0.78 (SD=0.2). In both sexes, migrated status, year of experience, and the number of acute symptoms were associated with the EQ-5D index. Males and females were equally likely to participate in healthcare activities and were satisfied with on-site health services and responsiveness. However, females were much more likely to experience anxiety/depression (67.6%) and have recent healthcare visits, and use on-site medical services (Coef. = -0.33; 95% CI= -0.42; -0.25).Conclusions: Workplace-based improvement programs focused on promoting a culture of equality and empowerment may help enhance workers’ HRQOL