Community awareness and utilization of health services at Iringa Regional Referral Hospital in Tanzania: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: The Iringa Regional Referral Hospital (IRRH) is a vital referral facility for both urban and rural populations in Tanzania’s Iringa Region. The assessment aimed to evaluate community awareness, accessibility, and perceptions of service quality, all of which influence effective utilization of referral hospital services.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study surveyed 199 adult residents in the IRRH catchment area, using a structured questionnaire that assessed socio-demographic characteristics, awareness and accessibility of services, utilization patterns, information sources, and perceptions of service quality. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests analyzed factors associated with utilization at a 95% confidence level.

Results: Most respondents recognized that IRRH offers health services, though awareness of specialized options was low (15.1% for rehabilitative care, 7% for specialized clinics). Ninety-three percent had visited IRRH, with inpatient (74%) and diagnostic services (58.3%) being most common. Key factors influencing utilization included age, marital status, service awareness, perceived reliability, and perceived quality, while gender did not significantly impact usage. Barriers included high costs (81.9%), long waits (69.3%), and poor staff attitudes (64.3%). Trustworthy information sources were radio and health workers, and respondents indicated a need for better hospital communication.

Conclusions: While general awareness of IRRH services is high, utilization is influenced by both socio-demographic factors and perceptions of service reliability and quality. Addressing financial, accessibility, and communication barriers, along with strengthening outreach and service quality, is essential to enhance the effective use of referral hospital services.