Preferred Choice of Health Facilities for Healthcare among Adult Residents in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose: The choice of health facilities for healthcare by an individual is largely determined by several factors. This study aims to determine predictors of preferred choice of health facility for care. Methods: In a descriptive cross-sectional study, pre-tested semi-structure questionnaire was administered to 366 adults selected through a multi-stage sampling technique in Ilorin metropolis. Data collected were analysed using Epi Info software version 3.4.1 and level of significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The preferred health facility for medical care was private hospitals (35.2%) followed by pharmaceutical store (27.9%) and 17.0% for general/teaching hospitals and only 12.3% for primary health care (PHC). Quick service and availability of drugs were the major reasons for their preference which were said to be better in private hospitals. Sex, marital status, educational status, occupation and city area where the respondents dwell are all associated with the preferred choice of health facility for care. Conclusion: This study has shown that the private sector is preferred to the public ones with regards to receiving healthcare and that within the public sector, the higher levels of health facilities are preferred to the primary health care centres. Improving the image and performance of the public health facilities especially the PHC is very important for appropriate utilization of health services

Keywords: Preference, Health Facilities, Public hospital, Private hospital