Effect of Gender Preference for Healthcare Services Providers by Caregivers on Immunization Coverage in Zamfara State, Northern Nigeria

The study examines the effect of gender preference for healthcare services providers by caregivers (parents and guardians) on immunization coverage in Zamfara state, Northern Nigeria.Primary data was collected from 200 caregivers from Kaura Namoda, Bakura and Gusau local government areas of the state using a semi-structured questionnaire administered by the interviewers.The data was analyzed using descriptive statistical tools and Binary Logistic regression models.The variables include preference for male healthcare providers, preference for female healthcare providers, and immunization coverage.The descriptive result shows that about 198 (99%) of the 200 caregivers preferred female healthcare providers, and only 2 (1%) are indifferent which means they have no particular gender preference.Results from Binary Logistic regression reveal a positive relationship between female healthcare providers and a potential increase of childhood immunization coverage and a negative relationship between male healthcare providers and a potential increase of childhood immunization coverage in those communities.In conclusion, to increase immunization coverage in Zamfara State, female healthcare providers should be prioritized over male healthcare providers.