Abstract:
Background: The utilization of primary health care (PHC) facilities has declined as
most patients are using the hospitals for minor ailments. The study aimed to
investigate factors that contribute to non-utilization of PHC services by the community
in Greater Tzaneen Municipality, Mopani District, Limpopo Province.
Methodology: quantitative research method was used, and data was collected using
self-designed questionnaire. Total of 101 respondents out of 135 population
participated in the study. Simple random sampling was used. The questionnaire was
piloted to ensure reliability in a different setting. Data was analyzed using SPSS
version 24. The outcome of the analysis was presented as frequencies and
percentages in tables, pie charts and bar graphs. Ethical standards were adhered to
throughout the study.
Results: Demographic results indicated that the most of the respondents were
females, aged between 26-35 years, speak the Sepedi language unemployed, went
up to secondary school level using public transport, and have used their local clinic
before more than. Many indicated that they have visited the hospital for reasons other
than maternal and child health, chronic diseases and medication and minor illnesses.
25 factors recorded and the respondents reported six major factors that contributed
to non-utilizing their PHC services. Factors included long queues and waiting times,
no drugs and essential medication, PHC not operating for 24 hours and not operating
for 7 days per week and nurses’ negative attitudes toward the community.
Conclusions: Demographic results did not impact on the non-utilization of PHC
services, but community-related, administrative factors and health-related factors
contributed to non-utilization of PHC services
