Factors associated with individuals’ preferences for Primary Health Care facility type: A case of Bolgatanga Municipality in the Upper East Region of Ghana

BACKGROUND: Research on the factors influencing patients' preferences for facility type has expanded considerably. However, there is a recognizable gap regarding the specific determinants that drive preferences for different types of Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities. To address this gap, the study identified the key factors influencing individuals' preferences for PHC facility type in the Bolgatanga Municipality, Upper East Region, Ghana. METHODS: This study employed a two-stage cluster sampling method, and 398 residents in the Bolgatanga Municipality of the Upper East Region were surveyed with structured questionnaires acting as the primary data collection tool. Data was entered and analyzed using Stata Version 17.0 and SPSS Version 22.0 computer software. Frequencies, percentages, and multinomial logistic regression statistical analysis were employed in analyzing the filed data. RESULTS: Quality-of-care (aOR = 2.89, 95% CI: 1.02-9.78, p = 0.033) was a significant determinant of individuals' preference for PHC facility type. The study also found that accessibility-related factors such as distance and location (aOR = 3.42, 95% CI: 1.78-6.84, p = 0.001), transportation options (aOR = 4.01, 95% CI: 2.10-7.83, p < 0.001), waiting time (aOR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.10-2.47, p < 0.001), appointment availability (aOR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.14-5.61, p = 0.001) and cost of care (aOR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.02-0.95, p < 0.001) are associated with individuals' preferences for PHC facility type. CONCLUSION: The study established perceived quality-of-care and accessibility factors significantly influenced individual preferences for PHC facility type, with cost-sensitive and nearby Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds remaining crucial for clients with limited resources. Therefore, the management of facilities within Bolgatanga Municipality and similar contexts should improve service quality, reduce waiting times, and enhance transport and financial accessibility to ensure equitable utilization of PHC services.".