Integrated Service Delivery in Primary Health Care: Urban and Rural Perspectives from Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract: Background: Integrating health services in primary health care (PHC) enhances efficiency, access, and comprehensive care, playing a vital role in achieving equity, universal health coverage (UHC), and better population health outcomes. Objective: This study examined the differences in integrated health service delivery between urban and rural PHC facilities in Anambra State, Nigeria. Methods: Interviewer-administered questionnaires and observation checklists assessed variations in service availability, workforce practices, and patient experiences across urban and rural PHC facilities. Health workers and clients were selected using probability and convenience sampling, respectively. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests at a 5% significance level. Results: Health workers provided specific services on designated days, with over 91% of clients having been turned away and asked to return for services on scheduled days. Urban PHC facilities had a statistically significant advantage over rural ones in human resource availability, frequency of basic service provision, and implementation of a two-way referral system. Conclusion: Strengthened policies, ongoing capacity building, and strong monitoring systems are vital for effective PHC service integration. Keywords: Integrated health services, Primary health care, urban-rural comparison, health workers, southeastern Nigeria. Title: Integrated Service Delivery in Primary Health Care: Urban and Rural Perspectives from Southeastern Nigeria Author: Ifeoma Anne Njelita, Hilary Nkem Okeke, Chinyerem Cynthia Nwachukwu, Ifeanyi Gabriel Eyisi, Chijioke Amara Ezenyeaku, Chukwudi Uchenna Njelita, Ikechukwu Vincent Obi, Karen Chioma Njelita International Journal of Healthcare Sciences ISSN 2348-5728 (Online) Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026 Page No: 388-394 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 26-January-2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18379355 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/integrated-service-delivery-in-primary-health-care-urban-and-rural-perspectives-from-southeastern-nigeria