A Qualitative Study with Health Belief Model: Perceived Risks and Compliance Towards COVID-19 Prevention Measures Among Adults in Indonesia

Abstract

Current policy responses in Indonesia have been focused on increasing public awareness of the risks of COVID-19. Nevertheless, there is limited information concerning public perceptions on COVID-19 pandemic that would contribute for formulating adequate preventative approaches to mitigate consequences of COVID-19 in the population. The Health Belief Model (HBM) approach was adopted in this qualitative study among Indonesian adults in 34 provinces. Risks and barriers perception of COVID-19 prevention measures were assessed include exploring perceived of susceptibility, perceived of severity, perceived of benefits and perceived barriers. In-depth interviews (IDIs) were performed in April 2020 via phone (online interview). Thematic analysis approach was applied for the qualitative data analysis. The findings suggests that perception towards COVID-19 has influenced level of participation and compliance in practicing recommended preventive and control measures. Several obstacles to implement the preventive measures included the readiness of the government in terms of infrastructure and human resources for health. Lacking in terms of complying with prevention policies and health protocols, and overlapping policies launched by the government felt by the public were found to create mixed messages and responses on adequate preventative measures relating to COVID-19 epidemics situation in Indonesia. Of which, in the context of global crisis a consistent regulation and firmness in implemented related issues play a crucial role in forming participatory of preventive and control measures. Persistent and assertiveness of policy responses can increase and sustain community trust as well as their attitudes and compliance with COVID-19 preventive measures for preventing community transmission of COVID-19.