Healthcare-seeking behavior and awareness of physical therapy among Japanese residents in Thailand: a descriptive study

[Purpose] This descriptive study examined healthcare-seeking behavior and awareness of physical therapy among Japanese residents of different age groups in Thailand. [Participants and Methods] The study included 145 Japanese residents in Thailand. An online questionnaire was used to collect data on the participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, healthcare-seeking behavior, and awareness of physical therapy. Participants were categorized into three groups based on age, such as young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults. The χ(2) test and Fisher’s exact test were used in the data analysis. [Results] The results showed that compared with the older groups, the youngest group was more likely to visit pharmacies, physical therapy clinics, osteopathic clinics, and Thai massage shops to receive healthcare services for injuries or diseases. The participants learned about healthcare services in Thailand through word-of-mouth. Additionally, more than 50% of all participants knew about physical therapy. [Conclusion] There are some differences in health-seeking behavior and awareness of physical therapy among the groups. The youngest group visited physical therapy clinics and 50% of all participants knew about physical therapy.