Assessment of Factors Affecting Utilization of Basic Healthcare Provision Fund Program at PHC Facilities in Itas/Gadau LGA Bauchi State
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Abstract
Background: The Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) was established under section 11 of the National Health Act as
a catalytic funding to improve access to primary health care. The BHCPF is derived from: (a) an annual grant from the Federal
Government of Nigeria of not less than one percent (1%) of the Consolidated Revenue Fund; (b) grants by international donor
partners; (c) funds from any other source, inclusive of the private sector. This study determined the factors affecting utilization
of the BHCPF program at PHC facilities in Itas/Gadau LGA, Bauchi State.
Methods: The study was carried out in rural areas in Itas/Gadau Local Government Area of Bauchi State, in the north eastern
part of Nigeria. A descriptive cross‑sectional study design was used, with multistage sampling technique employed.
Results: The study found that the majority of workers stated that facility funding supports activities including: community
prevention 250 (95.8%), purchase of essential medicines and health commodities from accredited pharmacies 212 (81.2%).
The main factors affecting utilization of BHCPF at PHC facilities were: delay in releasing funds 194 (74.3%), weak inancial
management and accountability systems 177 (67.8%), and inadequate equipment 203 (77.8%). The majority of respondents
identiied the following causes of ineficiency: adequate staff numbers 215 (82.4%), awareness of periodic facility evaluations
223 (85.4%), and prior facility evaluation on BHCPF performance 215 (82.4%).
Conclusion: PHC workers are well‑versed in the BHCPF project. The project funds improved facilities (equipment, drugs, reno‑
vation of structures). Primary health care facilities can utilize the BHCPF, though notable gaps remain. The need for more BHCPF
training and clariication on strengthening the PHC system was expressed by 100% of respondents.
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