Implementation of Health Service Delivery Component of the National Strategic Health Development Plan in Kogi State, Nigeria (2018-2022)

Abstract

This study appraises the implementation of the health service delivery component of the National Strategic Health Development Plan (NSHDP) in Kogi State, Nigeria. The NSHDP (2010) highlights the significant human development challenges faced by Nigeria, primarily due to the lack of a robust healthcare delivery system. The study underscores the need for a pragmatic and sustainable risk-pooling mechanism to remove physical and financial barriers to healthcare access for the poor, along with financial protection policies. It also emphasizes using socio-economic characteristics of households to provide evidence for policy focus, examining how these align with realities in Kogi State. Guided by four research questions, objectives, and hypotheses, the study adopts the Systems theory as its theoretical framework and employs a descriptive survey research design. The study's population is 1,020,288, with data collected from both primary and secondary sources. A total of 400 questionnaires were distributed, with 376 completed and returned. Data presentation and analysis were conducted using simple percentages, tables, and ANOVA via SPSS. Findings reveal that inequity in the distribution of healthcare facilities significantly limits access to healthcare services in Kogi State. Additionally, essential medicines and technologies are found to be significantly inadequate in the state's health centers. The study recommends that the Kogi State Government, NGOs, and donor agencies implement a fairer redistribution strategy for healthcare facilities to minimize regional disparities and ensure equitable access to services. Furthermore, it advises that the Kogi State Government, through the Ministry of Health, continuously monitor inventory levels of essential medicines and modern equipment in health centers across the state.