Keywords
use of services
Bunia
households
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction
Access to quality curative care remains a challenge in many low-resource settings. The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies healthcare utilization as a key determinant of public health outcomes.
Purpose
This study aimed to identify household and organizational factors associated with the use of curative healthcare services in the Bunia Health Zone, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in January–February 2023 using a multi-stage cluster sampling technique. Data from 824 households were collected via structured questionnaires. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with facility choice.
Results
Among households reporting illness in the last 30 days, 68.7% used non-subsidized private facilities. Significant factors influencing this choice included satisfaction with care (OR = 5.50, p = 0.001), good reception (OR = 5.41, p = 0.012), availability of medicine (OR = 3.26, p = 0.006), affordable cost (OR = 4.89, p = 0.010), and smaller household size (OR = 3.52, p = 0.008).
Conclusion
To enhance the utilization of subsidized services, health system interventions should prioritise improving patient satisfaction, affordability, waiting times, and drug availability.
References
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