What is it about?
This study examines differences in how people seek healthcare across Nigeria using data from the World Bank General Household Survey. It compares health-seeking behaviour between regions and across socioeconomic groups. The findings show that many Nigerians rely more on private providers, while factors such as income, gender, distance, and illness severity influence the type of care people choose. Older individuals are also more likely to use informal care options such as traditional healers.
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Why is it important?
The study highlights significant inequalities in access to and use of healthcare in Nigeria. These disparities affect health outcomes and reflect broader socioeconomic challenges. Understanding who accesses what type of care and why helps policymakers design targeted interventions to improve equitable access to quality healthcare, especially for vulnerable groups such as women, the poor, and the elderly.
Perspectives
The findings suggest the need for policies that improve access to affordable and quality healthcare across regions. Strengthening public healthcare, regulating private providers, and addressing barriers such as distance and cost are essential. Future research can explore long-term trends, regional policy effectiveness, and how digital health or insurance expansion can reduce disparities in healthcare use in Nigeria.
Uche Abamba Osakede
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Regional Disparities in Health-Seeking Behaviour in Nigeria: Evidence from the World Bank General Household Survey, Managing Global Transitions, December 2025, University of Primorska Press,
DOI: 10.26493/1854-6935.23.451-483.
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