Strengthening Access and Functionality of Underserved Primary Health Care Centres in Nkanu West Local Government Area, Enugu State

This capstone project examined the functionality of primary health care (PHC) facilities in Nkanu West Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria. Using a participatory mixed-methods approach, the study assessed governance structures, service utilisation, and community engagement across three underserved PHCs. Findings revealed that PHC dysfunction is primarily governance-sensitive rather than resource-limited. Community-driven interventions, including the reactivation of Community Health Committees and integration of volunteer health workers, resulted in a 77% increase in service utilisation and restoration of maternal health services in one facility. The study proposes a “governance-first” model for PHC revitalisation, emphasizing community ownership, accountability, and low-cost sustainable interventions. The findings provide practical insights for strengthening primary healthcare systems in rural and resource-constrained settings.