Background of the Study
Disease burden, measured in terms of morbidity and mortality, remains a major challenge in Nigeria, with infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and maternal-child health conditions contributing to poor health outcomes (WHO, 2024). Nasarawa State, located in north-central Nigeria, faces significant health challenges due to inadequate healthcare infrastructure, high poverty levels, and limited access to quality medical services (Bello et al., 2023).
Malaria, respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and malnutrition are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Nasarawa State. Additionally, NCDs such as hypertension, diabetes, and stroke are becoming increasingly prevalent due to lifestyle changes and urbanization (Ogunyemi & Yusuf, 2023). Despite government efforts through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs), many residents, particularly in rural areas, lack access to essential healthcare services (Adepoju et al., 2024).
This study examines the disease burden in Nasarawa State and evaluates healthcare accessibility, focusing on factors such as affordability, availability, and quality of services. The findings will provide critical insights for policymakers to improve healthcare delivery in the state.
Statement of the Problem
Despite ongoing health interventions, the burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases remains high in Nasarawa State, exacerbated by inadequate healthcare access. Many rural communities rely on underfunded and understaffed primary health centers, leading to preventable disease complications and high mortality rates (Ogunyemi & Yusuf, 2023).
Healthcare affordability is also a significant challenge, with many households unable to pay for essential treatments, especially in the absence of functional health insurance coverage. Additionally, disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural areas further widen the gap in health outcomes (Adepoju et al., 2024).
This study aims to analyze the disease burden in Nasarawa State and assess the extent of healthcare accessibility challenges, providing recommendations to improve healthcare delivery.
Objectives of the Study
1. To examine the major diseases contributing to the disease burden in Nasarawa State.
2. To evaluate the factors affecting healthcare accessibility in Nasarawa State.
3. To assess the effectiveness of government healthcare policies in improving access to healthcare.
Research Questions
1. What are the major diseases contributing to the disease burden in Nasarawa State?
2. What factors influence healthcare access in Nasarawa State?
3. How effective are existing healthcare policies in improving access to medical services in Nasarawa State?
Research Hypotheses
1. Communicable diseases contribute more significantly to the disease burden in Nasarawa State than non-communicable diseases.
2. Limited healthcare infrastructure significantly reduces access to healthcare services in rural areas of Nasarawa State.
3. Government healthcare policies have not significantly improved healthcare access in Nasarawa State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the disease burden and healthcare accessibility in Nasarawa State, analyzing hospital records, demographic health surveys, and policy documents. The study will consider urban and rural disparities in healthcare access.
Limitations may include difficulties in obtaining comprehensive healthcare data, variations in disease reporting, and potential biases in self-reported health access challenges.
Definitions of Terms
• Disease Burden: The impact of health conditions measured in terms of morbidity, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
• Healthcare Access: The ability of individuals to obtain medical services when needed, considering affordability, availability, and quality of care.
• Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs): Community-based health facilities that provide essential medical services, including immunization, maternal care, and treatment of common diseases.
• National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS): A government program aimed at improving healthcare affordability and accessibility in Nigeria.
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