Women Fear Seeking Care at Gwarijiko PHC Due to Lack of Female Health Workers

the absence of female health workers at the Primary Health Center (PHC) has created a significant barrier for women seeking medical care. Cultural norms and personal comfort often make it challenging for women to consult male health practitioners, leading to delays or complete avoidance of necessary medical attention. This situation is not unique to Gwarijiko; across various regions, the gender of healthcare providers plays a crucial role in the accessibility and effectiveness of medical services for women.

Studies have shown that female health leaders positively influence health outcomes, financial performance, innovation, and organizational culture. Despite comprising 70% of the healthcare workforce, women hold only 25% of leadership roles. This disparity suggests that maximizing women’s potential in healthcare could lead to improved services and better health outcomes for communities.

In Nigeria, restrictive laws and cultural stigmas surrounding reproductive health have led to unsafe practices and adverse outcomes for women. For instance, in Ogun state, women have formed networks to discreetly distribute abortion pills and provide support, highlighting the lengths to which they must go to access essential health services. These grassroots efforts underscore the critical need for accessible and female-friendly healthcare services.

The situation in Gwarijiko PHC exemplifies the broader challenges faced in ensuring equitable healthcare access. Addressing these issues requires systemic changes, including the recruitment and retention of female health workers, creating supportive environments for women in healthcare, and implementing policies that recognize and mitigate gender-related barriers. By fostering a more inclusive healthcare system, communities like Gwarijiko can improve health outcomes and empower women to seek the care they need without fear or hesitation.