Why Men Delay Hospital Visits: Changing the Narrative with Accessible Insurance

Dr. Canberth Tibihika, Senior Care Manager

Across Tanzania and much of Africa, many men wait until their condition is severe before going to hospital. What often starts as mild discomfort grows into a serious illness, not because care is unavailable, but because seeking help feels unnecessary or inconvenient. This hesitation has become one of the silent challenges in improving public health, and understanding its causes is key to changing the narrative.

Part of the problem lies in how society defines masculinity. From an early age, boys are taught to be strong, self-reliant, and stoic. Strength is often equated with silence, and endurance is seen as a badge of honour.

As a result, many men avoid admitting when something feels wrong, choosing instead to push through the pain. Visiting a hospital can feel like surrender, an admission of weakness that clashes with deeply ingrained beliefs about what it means to be a man. Yet true strength lies in taking responsibility for one’s wellbeing, not in ignoring warning signs.

Another factor is the perception of healthcare as something reactive rather than preventive. Many men only visit hospitals when faced with emergencies, overlooking the importance of regular check-ups and screenings.

Preventive care, however, is what makes early detection possible. Conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and prostate complications can be managed effectively when identified early, but they become far more serious when left unchecked. Normalising annual wellness visits is therefore an essential step in building healthier lifestyles.

Financial worries also contribute to delayed hospital visits. For many families, men are the primary earners, and the thought of spending money on personal healthcare can feel like a luxury. The fear of high medical bills often discourages timely care, even when symptoms persist. This is where health insurance plays a transformative role. With reliable coverage, medical visits no longer feel like a financial gamble but a responsible investment in long-term wellbeing.

At Jubilee Health Insurance, we see every day how access to affordable cover changes health-seeking behaviour. When people know their medical needs are taken care of, they approach healthcare with confidence rather than hesitation. Our focus on flexible and accessible health plans encourages preventive care and ensures that individuals and families can make health a priority without financial strain.

Changing the story around men’s health will also require open conversations and supportive environments. Workplaces, community leaders, and families must actively promote health awareness and encourage regular medical check-ups. When men see their peers and loved ones taking health seriously, they are more likely to do the same.

Encouraging men to seek timely medical care is not just about preventing disease; it is about safeguarding productivity, family stability, and quality of life. Health is the foundation of strength, and taking care of it is both a personal and collective responsibility. With greater awareness, supportive communities, and accessible insurance, men across Tanzania can live healthier, fuller, and freer lives – not by enduring in silence, but by choosing care, courage, and action.