INDIVIDUAL-RELATED FACTORS INFLUENCING THE UTILIZATION OF PUBLIC PRIMARY HEALTHCARE FACILITIES IN TETU SUB-COUNTY, NYERI COUNTY, KENYA

Background: Primary health care facilities are well positioned to provide person-centered and community-based care required to prevent or postpone morbidities. This realization had Nyeri County investing heavily on construction and equipping of health centers and dispensaries to bring services closer to the people Objective: This study determine the individual-related factors influencing the utilization of public primary healthcare facilities in Tetu Sub-County, Nyeri County, Kenya Methods: The study was carried out in Tetu Sub County. An analytical cross-sectional survey research design comprising both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods was used in the study. The study targeted adults living in Tetu Sub County. The Cochrans Sample Size Formula was used to calculate a sample size of 271 respondents. Multistage sampling was used to draw respondents in the study. The study collected both quantitative and qualitative data using a questionnaire and a focus discussion guide respectively. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used in the analysis. Results: The study found that was a significant relationship (p=0.01) between sex and utilization of public primary healthcare facilities. Similarly, there was a significant relationship (p<0.01) between education and utilization of public primary healthcare facilities. However, there was no significant relationship (p=0.350) between age and utilization of public primary healthcare facilities. Similarly, there was no significant relationship (p=0.945) between marital status and utilization of public primary healthcare facilities. Conclusion: Respondents who had low level of education (primary) were more likely to utilise primary healthcare facilities. The study recommends the quality and accessibility of primary healthcare services to be upgraded to make them more attractive to individuals with higher educational backgrounds.