Achieving Access to Eye Care Services through Primary Health Care Facilities: Current Situation in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Provision of eye care services at primary health care facilities is essential for the elimination of avoidable blindness by 2020. This study examines the current resources and services available for eye patients at the primary health care facilities in Cross River State, Nigeria. 

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection. A multistage random sampling technique was used to select 12 primary health care facilities and 146 participants. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and an observation check list. 

Results: Of the 146 primary health care workers, 136 (93.2%) were females, about 58.2% were community health extension workers and 13% were nurses. Only eight (5.5%) workers had primary eye care training, 14 (9.6%) provided visual acuity assessment and pen torch examination. Referral of eye cases was done by ‘word of mouth’ without records and follow up. Health education was routinely done but lacked appropriate vision promotion content. 

Conclusions: The primary health care facilities were not adequately staffed and equipped to provide eye care services. Policy on primary eye care integration, adequate training of existing human resources and provision of equipment for primary eye care services are sorely needed.