This study aims at assessing gender-based utilization of PHC services and associated factors in Pakistan. In this cross-sectional study, data were collected from 302 participants within the catchment areas of 10 basic health units in Pishin District. The analysis showed both women (37.8%) and men (33.8%) to be low users of PHC services during the previous 6-month period. The findings indicated significant differences (P<0.05) between men and women in the predisposing, enabling and need factors that influenced their utilization of PHC services. The utilization of PHC services among men was associated with age; education; income; distance; availability of doctor; availability of medicine; continuity of care; satisfaction; and chronic illness. For women, utilization was related with age; marital status; income; usual source of care; availability of doctor; continuity of care; satisfaction; chronic illness; and health status. Gender issues were found in utilization of PHC services and associated factors. These findings suggest the need for the development of gender-sensitive strategies at the policy and service delivery levels to improve the utilization of PHC services by both men and women.

Username
Password