Perception and Utilization of Healthcare Services among SS 2 Students in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research work was carried out to investigate the perception and utilization of healthcare services among SS 2 students in Jos North LGA of Plateau State. The research was conducted using cross- sectional survey research method through structured questionnaire which were administered to two hundred SS 2 students who served as the respondents. The data collected from the respondents was analyzed using simple frequency and percentage method. The result revealed that 177 (88.5%) respondents perceived healthcare services to be relevant to the health and wellbeing of an individual, 170 (85%) said that healthcare  provides both preventive and curative services, 134 (67%) perceived healthcare services to be expensive and 124 (62%) agreed that most doctors and nurses have negative attitude towards their patients. Based on the findings, it was revealed that the level of utilization of health services among SS 2 students is low- 110 (55%) and health services are lacking in most schools- 91(45.5%). The result also revealed that schools management had a negative attitude towards health services- 133 (66.5%). Based on findings, it was recommended that the government and stakeholders should subsidize the cost of health services and improve primary health centers in order to increase utilization. School management should create adequate time for students to access and utilize health services in the school clinic. Also, the school management should provide adequate health services and partner with health agencies and workers to periodically evaluate students’ health.