Background of the Study:
Primary healthcare (PHC) serves as the cornerstone of a robust healthcare system, providing essential services such as preventive care, maternal and child health, and disease management. In Niger State, the availability of PHC services is critical for ensuring equitable access to healthcare. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, workforce shortages, and limited financial resources have led to significant disparities in the availability of PHC services across the state (Chukwu, 2023). Rural and remote areas in Niger State often suffer from a dearth of PHC facilities, forcing residents to travel long distances to access care. This not only delays treatment but also increases the risk of complications from common illnesses.
The quality of PHC services is also affected by a lack of essential medicines, medical equipment, and trained personnel. Health facilities in many parts of Niger State struggle to meet the basic needs of the population, resulting in poor health outcomes and a high burden of preventable diseases (Aminu, 2024). Additionally, weak health system governance and inefficient resource allocation contribute to the uneven distribution of services. Recent studies indicate that strengthening PHC systems can lead to significant improvements in public health by promoting early intervention and reducing hospital admissions (Ibrahim, 2025). This study aims to evaluate the availability and accessibility of primary healthcare services in Niger State, with a focus on identifying gaps in service delivery and proposing actionable strategies for improvement.
Statement of the Problem:
In Niger State, the availability of primary healthcare services is markedly uneven, with rural areas experiencing significant deficits. Many communities lack nearby health facilities, resulting in delayed or forgone care. This disparity is compounded by insufficient funding, limited human resources, and logistical challenges in supplying essential medicines and equipment. The inadequate availability of PHC services contributes to poor health outcomes, higher rates of preventable diseases, and increased reliance on secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities, which are often overcrowded and under-resourced (Umar, 2023). The fragmentation of PHC services further exacerbates health inequities, as residents in under-served areas are unable to receive timely and effective care. Addressing these gaps is essential for improving overall health indicators in Niger State and achieving health equity.
Objectives of the Study:
Research Questions:
Research Hypotheses:
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses on the distribution and quality of PHC services in selected urban and rural areas of Niger State. Limitations include potential variability in facility reporting and challenges in assessing service quality objectively.
Definitions of Terms:
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