Research Article
Utilization and Barriers to Dental Servicers in Primary Health Care Clinics in Katsina State, Nigeria
- By Halima Mohammed, S.M. Mahmudul Hasan, Nurudeen Aliyu, Maryam Dahiru Umar, Ibrahim Aliyu Umar, Abubakar Sadiq Idris, Shuaibu Suleiman, Abdulbaqi Alhaji Magaji, Ibrahim Musa Moi, Yahaya Mohammed Katagum, Ibrahim Mijinyawa, Aminu Aliyu, Oladele Hanafi, - 26 Jun 2025
- Healthcare Studies, Volume: 3(2025), Issue: 1, Pages: 7 - 13
- https://doi.org/10.58612/hs312
- Received: 30.01.2025; Accepted: 15.06.2025; Published: 26.06.2025
Abstract
There are various barriers that limit the utilization of dental services in primary health care clinics globally. Utilization of dental services in primary health care centers clinics in Katsina State Nigeria is low, and there is a lack of awareness about the importance of dental care among the population. Identifying barriers and factors influencing utilization is crucial to improving access to dental services and enhancing oral health outcomes. This study aimed to assess the utilization of dental services and identify barriers to access in primary health care centers in Katsina, Nigeria. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design, the study used the sample size of 336 respondents to represent the entire population, which comprised of 2,785 people. The data were analyzed using Frequency distributions and percentages. The study revealed that 70% of the respondents had not utilized dental services in primary health care centers. Lack of awareness about the importance of dental care was reported by 70% of the respondents, indicating a need for public awareness campaigns. Furthermore, primary health care centers missed opportunities to provide dental health education to the population. Factors influencing utilization, including affordability, proximity, quality, availability, and trust, were identified. Quality disparities in dental service provision were also observed. The study highlights the need for comprehensive efforts to increase awareness about the importance of dental care and improve the availability and quality of dental services in primary health care centers in Katsina. Targeted interventions, including public awareness campaigns, educational programs, training for health care providers, and affordability measures, are recommended to enhance utilization rates and overall oral health in the region. Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial to successfully implement these recommendations and address the identified barriers to dental service utilization.