Spatial Location and the Utilization of Primary Health Care Services by Nursing Mothers in Niger South Senatorial Zone, Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria’s infant mortality ranking has become worrisome despite efforts to curb the negative trend. Rural areas are the most affected. The establishment of Primary Health Care Centers (PHCs) as a move to improve child and maternal health is yet to decimate the problem. Thus, this study is informed by the need to explore the role of spatial location on the utilization of PHCs in a bid to find a lasting solution to infant mortality in Niger South senatorial zone. The study leverages the 3-Delays model as its theoretical framework. 400 nursing mothers were purposively selected for the study and data were collected using structured questionnaire and focus group guide. Interviews were also conducted with heads of PHCs. Results from the findings revealed that nursing mothers significantly patronized the PHCs, especially in the rural areas. Many of them visited the PHCs at least once a year. Access to PHCs was easier in the rural areas than the urban areas and rural mothers were relatively satisfied with the service rendered to them compared to the urban mothers. However, the rural areas still recorded more infant mortalities than the urban areas owing to poor staffing, lack of medical equipment and supplies in the PHCs. Therefore, the study concludes that patronage of PHCs alone is not adequate in resolving the infant mortality crisis. Thus, the study recommends proper staffing and equipping of PHCs and establishment of additional ones in order to halt the trend in infant mortality.

Keywords: Infant Mortality; Neonatal Mortality; Nursing Mothers; Primary Health Care Centers; Spatial Location