Relevance to Primary Health Care of Village Health Workers and Traditional Birth Attendants in Rural Areas of Oyo State, Nigeria

The objectives of the study were to investigate the relevance of traditional birth attendants (TBAs) and village health workers (VHWs) in primary health care of rural people, to identify problems encountered by TBAs/VHWs in the course of their activities, and to determine the attitude of residents (clients and non-clients) towards the services provided. The study area was rural Ibarapa in Oyo State, Nigeria. The sample consisted of 30 VHWs, 30 TBAs, their clients (120) and 240 local residents. Data were collected through a validated and pre-tested structured interview guide. The study concluded that VHWs and TBAs play a tremendous role and provide essential services in primary health care delivery for rural people. Problems encountered by VHWs and TBAs were irregular supply of drugs, unsatisfactory monitoring, supervision and evaluation by higher health officers from the local government and primary health care centres and poor remuneration. The residents were positive and satisfied with the services prov...