Published in PLOS One on 2026-08-20, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. Health Signal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Charles Obeng, Sussana Atanga, Kofi Akohene Mensah, Lawal Alhassan, Mabel Kamweli Aworh
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0354800
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Research on the factors influencing patients’ preferences for facility type has expanded considerably. However, there is a recognizable gap regarding the specific determinants that drive preferences for different types of Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities. To address this gap, the study identified the key factors influencing individuals’ preferences for PHC facility type in the Bolgatanga Municipality, Upper East Region, Ghana.
This study employed a two-stage cluster sampling method, and 398 residents in the Bolgatanga Municipality of the Upper East Region were surveyed with structured questionnaires acting as the primary data collection tool. Data was entered and analyzed using Stata Version 17.0 and SPSS Version 22.0 computer software. Frequencies, percentages, and multinomial logistic regression statistical analysis were employed in analyzing the filed data.
Quality-of-care (aOR = 2.89, 95% CI: 1.02–9.78, p = 0.033) was a significant determinant of individuals’ preference for PHC facility type. The study also found that accessibility-related factors such as distance and location (aOR = 3.42, 95% CI: 1.78–6.84, p = 0.001), transportation options (aOR = 4.01, 95% CI: 2.10–7.83, p < 0.001), waiting time (aOR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.10–2.47, p < 0.001), appointment availability (aOR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.14–5.61, p = 0.001) and cost of care (aOR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.02–0.95, p < 0.001) are associated with individuals’ preferences for PHC facility type.
The study established perceived quality-of-care and accessibility factors significantly influenced individual preferences for PHC facility type, with cost-sensitive and nearby Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds remaining crucial for clients with limited resources. Therefore, the management of facilities within Bolgatanga Municipality and similar contexts should improve service quality, reduce waiting times, and enhance transport and financial accessibility to ensure equitable utilization of PHC services.”.
Introduction
Globally, Primary Health Care (PHC) has been a crucial component of the healthcare system in many countries. This level of healthcare delivery functions as the first point of contact between patients and the health system, and plays a significant role in ensuring access to essential health services [1]. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) [2], Primary Health Care (PHC) is a whole-of-society approach to health that aims to ensure the highest possible level of health and well-being and their equitable distribution by focusing on populations’ needs as early as possible along the continuum from health promotion and disease prevention to treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care, as close as feasible to people’s everyday environment. PHC facilities consist of a different array of settings, such as community health centers, clinics, health posts, and general practitioner practices, which function as the frontline of healthcare delivery [3]. Global declarations, such as the Alma-Ata Declaration of 1978 and the Astana Declaration of 2018, unequivocally underscore the international commitment to PHC as the most equitable, effective, and efficient path to health [2].
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider financing & policy desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Charles Obeng, Sussana Atanga, Kofi Akohene Mensah, Lawal Alhassan, Mabel Kamweli Aworh. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by Health Signal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of Health Signal’s staff.
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