Challenges in Primary Health Care Delivery and Health-Seeking Behaviour: Implementing Social Behavioural Strategies in Awka, Nigeria

Abstract

Primary health care (PHC) is essential for providing equitable and accessible health services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. However, in Awka, the capital city of Anambra State, significant challenges impede the effective delivery of PHC services. This paper examines these challenges, focusing on systemic and socio-behavioural barriers that undermine health outcomes in the region. The study identifies key issues such as inadequate infrastructure, insufficient funding, a critical shortage of skilled health personnel, and persistent logistical problems in the supply and distribution of essential medical resources. Additionally, it highlights the complex social and behavioural factors rooted in cultural beliefs, low health literacy, and community distrust that contribute to poor health-seeking behaviours and resistance to public health interventions. The interplay between these operational and socio-cultural challenges results in suboptimal delivery of PHC services, particularly in areas such as preventive care, maternal and child health, and chronic disease management. To address these issues, the paper advocates for the development and implementation of targeted social and behavioural strategies that are culturally sensitive and community-driven. By tackling both the systemic inefficiencies and the socio-behavioural obstacles, there is potential to significantly improve health outcomes in Awka. This study contributes to the broader discourse on healthcare delivery in Nigeria, offering insights that could inform policy development and programme implementation in similar contexts across the country and beyond.