Utilization of Orthodox Eye Care Services among Visually Impaired Adults in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State

Abstract

Background: Evidence shows that poor utilization of available eye care services by potential beneficiaries is a major barrier to reducing the burden of visual impairment (VI) and blindness.

Aim: We sought to determine the extent of utilization and barriers to uptake of orthodox eye care services among adults with VI in Jos, the capital of Plateau state, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: A population-based cross-sectional study using cluster sampling technique was conducted. Twenty‑two clusters were chosen: from each cluster, 39 persons recruited for participation were interviewed to obtain demographic data and then examined to determine the visual acuity. Individuals with visual acuity of <6/18 had detailed ocular examination. Information on access to any eye services in the locality was obtained. The data from individual subjects were collated and analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences version 20.

Results: The study sample included 858 participants. Of the 160 participants with VI, 92 (57.5%) had sought eye care whereas 68 (42.5%) did not. It was found that utilization of eye services varied across the wards with Tafawa Balewa (100%), Vandapuye (100%), and Jenta Apata (100%) wards having the highest percentage of eye care utilization whereas Kabong (0%) and Mazah (11.1%) had the lowest eye care utilization rate. Factors associated with previous use of eye services were literacy (odds ratio = 1.41, P = 0.10) and blindness (odds ratio = 1.37, P = 0.09). Cost 39 (57.4%), being destined to be visually impaired 13 (19.1%), and old age 7 (10.3%) were found to be the most cited barriers to the use of eye services.

Conclusion: The use of eye care services among visually impaired participants was low in this urban local council; this can be enhanced by health education and awareness campaigns. The role of community participation in eye care is important so as to improve the uptake of existing eye services.