Service availability, readiness and health-seeking behavior of gender based violence survivor services in primary healthcare facilities in Dodoma, Tanzania. An Explanatory-sequential study design

Abstract

BackgroundThe health sector is a key stakeholder in GBV national response network however, delivery of quality healthcare services for GBV survivors is highly neglected.MethodsThis study will use a mixed-research approach by employing an explanatory sequential study design. Phase one will involve a cross-sectional survey of 61 primary healthcare facilities to examine availability and readiness of GBV survivor’s services. The second phase will involve a descriptive qualitative study among healthcare providers, community healthcare workers and clients to examine the health-seeking behavior and challenges in providing and receiving GBV survivor’s services in primary healthcare facilities. The study will be conducted between March-April 2024 in Dodoma City Council, Tanzania.DiscussionThis study will have potential implications to program managers, policy makers and healthcare providers to tailor interventions that will improve the quality of healthcare service delivery especially towards integrated GBV survivor’s services. But also, understanding the health-seeking behavior and challenges associated with access and provision of GBV survivor’s services will help unveiling gaps in the clients’ point of view and the community, their needs for the GBV survivor’s services and enhancing client-healthcare provider relationship.