Table 2 Exploratory factor analysis for the 18 barrier items

Factor 1- Emotional barriers

I found it embarrassing talking about my symptoms

0.46

I worried what they might find wrong with me

0.74

I worried they wouldn’t take my symptom(s) seriously

0.41

I worried about the possibility of having treatment

0.69

I worried about wasting the healthcare professional’s time

0.76

I didn’t want to be seen as someone who makes a fuss

0.83

I worried about putting extra strain on the NHS

0.74

Factor 2- External and practical barriers

I was too busy to make time to seek medical attention

0.86

I worried about the impact on my employment/ work from taking time off

0.87

I had too many other things to worry about

0.77

I thought the symptom was related to an existing illness or condition

0.65

Factor 3- Perceived service/health care professional barriers

The healthcare professional doesn’t explain things in a way I can understand

0.38

I found it difficult to get an appointment with a specific health professional at the GP practice (e.g. doctor)

0.89

I didn’t want to talk to a receptionist/administrative person about my symptom(s)

0.77

I found it difficult to get an appointment at a convenient time

0.81

It would have been difficult for me to discuss my health problem remotely (by phone, email or video call)

0.40