Conference abstract

Evolution of primary health care in Tanzania and its improvement in provision of reproductive health care services: a case study in Kilolo District Council

Pan African Medical Journal - Conference Proceedings. 2024:21(58).29 Apr 2024.
doi: 10.11604/pamj-cp.2024.21.58.2389
Archived on: 29 Apr 2024
Contact the corresponding author
Keywords: Primary health care, health services, reproductive health services
Oral presentation

Evolution of primary health care in Tanzania and its improvement in provision of reproductive health care services: a case study in Kilolo District Council

Easter Titus Mbunju1,&

1District Health Secretary, Health Department, Kilolo District Council, Iringa

&Corresponding author

Introduction: primary health care is the cornerstone of a nation's health and developmental endeavors. Since gaining independence in 1967, Tanzania has been steadfast in its pursuit of universal primary health care. However, this endeavor is challenged by the country's widespread poverty and predominantly rural population. This study delves into the evolution of primary health care and its efficacy in delivering health services.

Methods: employing a case study design, this research amalgamated qualitative and quantitative data for comprehensive analysis. Quantitative data underwent coding and analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), while qualitative data was subject to content analysis. A sample of 220 respondents, including council health management teams, hospital management teams, health workers, and beneficiaries, was selected through rigorous sampling methods, encompassing both primary and secondary data collection techniques.

Results: the evolution of primary health care in Tanzania has significantly facilitated the provision of health services, evidenced by notable correlations between key indicators such as service availability, accessibility, reliability, and affordability (P values: 0.271, 0.230, 0.284, and 0.251, respectively). Particularly, primary health care systems have demonstrably enhanced reproductive health services, notably in comprehensive emergency maternal and neonatal care, by prioritizing the aforementioned factors.

Conclusion: the study underscores the effectiveness of primary health care in enhancing and delivering reproductive health services in Tanzania. It advocates for equitable resource allocation by the government to primary healthcare facilities, ensuring adequate provision of medical equipment, financial support, infrastructure, and human resources.