Exploring Gender-Responsive Communication Strategies in Enhancing Healthcare Delivery: Insights from Akwanga and Wamba LGAs, Nasarawa State

Abstract

This study explored gender-responsive communication strategies in healthcare delivery within Akwanga and Wamba Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Nasarawa State, Nigeria, focusing on their role in addressing gender-specific health needs and improving healthcare-seeking behaviour. The primary objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies and identify barriers to their implementation. Grounded in Narrative Medicine Theory and Feminist Communication Theory, the research adopted a mixed-methods approach combining survey and semi structured interviews. A total of 400 questionnaires were administered to healthcare professionals and individuals seeking healthcare services, with 394 retrieved (98.5% response rate), alongside 20 key informant interviews (KIIs) with purposively selected healthcare providers. Key findings revealed that 63.5% of respondents were moderately to very aware of gender-specific health issues, with verbal communication (55.8%) and visual aids (50%) as dominant strategies used to disseminate related information. Gender-responsive communication positively impacted healthcare-seeking behaviour, with 58.4% reporting moderate to significant personal influence and 62.9% noting community-level effects. However, challenges included inadequate training (38.1%), resource scarcity (25.4%), and sociocultural barriers (20.3%). The study concluded that while awareness existed, systemic and cultural obstacles hindered effectiveness of gender-responsive communication efforts. Recommendations included training for healthcare professionals, integration of gender-responsive policies, and culturally tailored communication materials to enhance healthcare equity and outcomes in these LGAs.