Motives and factors associated with the utilization of medical clinics adjacent to private pharmacies in Veracruz

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the factors associated with the use of medical clinics adjacent to pharmacies (MCAP) of Farmacias Similares (FS) and Farmacias del Ahorro (FA) in the municipality of Xalapa, Veracruz.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study conducted in 2025 using a questionnaire administered to 224 individuals selected through convenience sampling, who were treated at 42 MCAPs in the municipality of Xalapa selected at random. Descriptive, bivariate analyses using the Chi-square test, and logistic regression models were performed to identify factors associated with use frequency (once a week, twice a month). 

Results: In both pharmacies, more than half of the population treated were women (56.7%) between the ages of 18 and 39 (53.1%). 39.3% did not have medical insurance, and 38% were IMSS beneficiaries. Respiratory problems were the leading cause of consultation, and proximity was the main reason for seeking care at MCAPs (64.2%). Factors associated with frequent use were basic schooling (OR = 2.04; 95% CI: 1.03–4.06; p = 0.040) and paying for care (OR = 4.14; 95% CI: 1.70–10.07; p = 0.002).

Conclusions: The main reason for using MCAPs was their proximity, and they were frequently used by both people without social security coverage and IMSS beneficiaries. Factors associated with frequent use included having only a basic schooling and paying for care.

Keywords: Private health institutions; Pharmacy; Doctor's office visit; Motivation; Mexico.