Fifth, Andersen (1968) developed a model of health care utilization (Figure 3) which
looks at three categories of determinants: 1) predisposing characteristics. This category
represents the proclivity to utilize health care services. According to Andersen, an individual is
more or less likely to use health services based on demographics, position within the social
structure, and beliefs of health services benefits. An individual who believes health services are
useful for treatment will likely utilize those services; 2) enabling characteristics. This category
Individual
Perceptions
Cues to action
Likelihood of Action:
benefits ‐ barriers
Modifying factors
Perceived threat
of disease
Likelihood of taking
preventative action
Rebhan 6
includes resources found within the family and the community. Family resources comprise
economic status and the location of residence. Community resources incorporate access to
health care facilities and the availability of persons for assistance; 3) need based characteristics.
The third category includes the perception of need for health services, whether individual, social,
or clinically evaluated perceptions of need