Date of Award
2025-08-01
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Sociology
Advisor(s)
Ophra Leyser-Whalen
Abstract
Crossing Borders: Analyzing the Factors Contributing to Healthcare and Reproductive Preferences Among Residents of the Texas-Mexico Border explores the complexities of healthcare access and utilization among border residents, particularly in the context of reproductive health. Through qualitative analysis of focus group discussions with promotoras - community health workers - this study identifies key factors influencing cross-border healthcare decisions, including economic barriers, cultural influences, and perceptions of quality. The findings reveal that high costs and limited insurance coverage in the U.S. drive many individuals to seek affordable healthcare and medications in Mexico, where pharmacies provide immediate, low-cost services without the need for prescriptions. Additionally, the study highlights the role of community networks in disseminating health resources and information, as well as the challenges faced by undocumented individuals in accessing care. By centering the voices of promotoras, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the healthcare needs of border communities and offers policy implications aimed at improving access to reproductive health services and fostering binational healthcare collaborations. Ultimately, the thesis underscores the necessity of addressing systemic inequalities in healthcare access along the Texas-Mexico border to better serve these marginalized populations.
Language
en
Provenance
Received from ProQuest
Copyright Date
2025-08
File Size
74 p.
File Format
application/pdf
Rights Holder
Yamaris Michelle Cordero
Recommended Citation
Cordero, Yamaris Michelle, "Crossing Borders: Analyzing the Factors Contributing to Healthcare and Reproductive Preferences Among Residents of the Texas-Mexico Border" (2025). Open Access Theses & Dissertations. 4352.
https://scholarworks.utep.edu/open_etd/4352