FACTORS INFLUENCING UTILIZATION OF ROUTINE MEDICAL CHECK-UP SERVICES AMONG STAFF AND STUDENTS AT THE AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY (ABU), ZARIA MEDICAL CENTER

Abstract

Routine medical check-ups (RMDs) are widely recognized as effective strategies for reducing morbidity and mortality from various diseases and offering a cost-effective approach to improving population health. However, despite their importance and accessibility in higher educational institutions, concerns have arisen over the underutilization among staff and students. This paper investigates the factors influencing the utilization of routine medical check-ups at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria Medical Center. Employing the Desire Belief Opportunity (DBO) theory as an explanatory framework, the paper utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative- through KIIS and IDIs, in addition to quantitative data collection, with 289 respondents drawn from five faculties at the A.B.U. main campus through simple random sampling. The study revealed that while a significant proportion of respondents were aware of ABU's medical centre offering routine check-ups; they primarily sought such services only when feeling unwell. Factors such as long waiting times fear of detecting abnormal diseases, and concerns about stigma hindered routine medical check-ups. The study recommends sensitizing staff and students about the importance of routine medical check-ups for early disease detection and knowledge of one's health status.