Findings and Predictors of Patient-Reported Experience of Primary Health Care in Nigeria

OBJECTIVE The study reports findings and patients' characteristics that predict their experiences of primary health care (PHC) in Nigeria. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of 1680 patients attending 24 primary health centers in 6 states from the 6 geopolitical subdivisions in Nigeria. The patient evaluation scale was used for exit survey of patients' experiences with PHC. Categorical findings and mean ratings on experiences of PHC were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS The mean response rate was 98%, and most respondents were female (73%) and married (72%). A higher proportion of patients gave positive feedback on their relationships with staff (84%) than they did available space in the waiting area (60%). Higher self-rated health status and nonpayment for care at the point of receipt were consistent predictors of positive patient experiences from the multilevel analysis. CONCLUSION Study reported findings and drivers of patient experiences with PHC. Aspects of PHC showing less positive patient experiences and some patients' factors associated with these are amenable to change and can form the focus of quality improvement actions.