Optimizing Primary Healthcare Infrastructure for Surgical Services in Dodoma: Strategies, Challenges, and Impact Assessment

Abstract

Efficient primary healthcare infrastructure is crucial for ensuring universal access to surgical services. However, optimizing this infrastructure presents several challenges, including resource allocation, workforce training, and service delivery. This study aims to explore strategies, challenges, and impacts of integrating surgical services into primary healthcare in Dodoma. A cross-sectional approach was used to collect quantitative data from 105 health workers at Dodoma Referral Hospital through questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS V26, with results presented in descriptive and inferential statistics. The study identified various strategies for optimizing healthcare infrastructure, such as effective resource allocation, timely availability of surgical equipment, workforce training, capacity-building programs, and the integration of technology. However, challenges such as insufficient equipment, staffing shortages, limited access to specialized care, financial constraints, and regulatory barriers hindered the optimization process. Multiple linear regression results indicated significant influences of independent variables on the dependent variables (p ≤ 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive relationship between strategy implementation and infrastructure optimization (r = .876**, p < .05). It also showed a very strong positive relationship between addressing challenges and infrastructure optimization (r = .868**, p < .05), and the impact of implemented strategies on service improvement (r = .859**, p < .05). The study suggests that addressing these challenges, enhancing collaboration among healthcare professionals, integrating technology, and providing policy support are crucial for improving surgical services. Strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure and addressing staffing shortages are recommended to optimize healthcare delivery in Dodoma.

Keywords: Healthcare, Healthcare Infrastructure, Surgical Services, Primary Healthcare