Orthodox or traditional medicine? Private or public healthcare? Exploring treatment pathways for occupational health problems among informal automobile artisans

Even though informal workers in developing countries have the most hazardous jobs, there is a sheer neglect for the treatment of their occupational health problems (OHP) in practice and by policies. This qualitative study explored how informal automobile artisans from Nigeria sought care for their OHP. It focused on their choice between orthodox and traditional medicine, between self-care and professional care, and between private and public health-care providers. 43 informal automobile artisans were purposively interviewed. The treatment sought depended on the type, the severity, and the perceived cause of the OHP. The distinction between rational and non-rational explanations of the causes of OHP usually determined the treatment endpoint. The financial means of the artisans and the cost of different treatments were also important factors. The study concluded that in order to develop safer working conditions in the sector, policy makers and artisanal associations should be aware of the considerations that informed the artisans' choices on how to treat OHP.