SOCIO-CULTURAL AND RELATED FACTORS INFLUENCING ACCESS AND UPTAKE OF ROUTINE MEDICAL CHECK-UP SERVICES AMONGST RESIDENTS OF ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the socio-cultural and related factors influencing access and uptake of routine medical check-up services among residents of Anambra State, Nigeria. The study adopted a convergent parallel mixed methods design, combining a cross-sectional survey with qualitative interviews. A sample of 378 adult residents was selected through a multistage sampling procedure, while participants were selected for both in-depth interviews and key informant interviews using purposive sampling. Data were collected using a researcher developed questionnaire, in-depth interview guide and key informant interview guide. Of the 378 questionnaires administered, 371 were correctly completed and returned, representing a 98.15% response rate. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency distributions, and percentages, while qualitative data were analyzed through manual content analysis. The research hypothesis was testes with chi-square test statistics. The findings showed that although respondents generally recognized the importance and benefits of routine medical check-up services, uptake remained low and inconsistent. Cost of medical check-ups was the most prominent barrier, while fear of being wrongfully diagnosed, lack of time, limited access to service points and attitudes of health workers also influenced utilization. Educational level had no statistically significant relationship with uptake of routine medical check-up services. The study therefore recommends reducing cost of components of routine check-up services, expanding health insurance coverage, improving the quality and accessibility of healthcare services. There is also need to strengthen public enlightenment campaigns, and improve health workers’ communication and attitudes, in order to build trust and encourage greater utilization.