Determinants of adolescent sexual and reproductive health service quality in Ghana

Abstract

Emmanuel Anongeba Anaba

Aim: The objective of this study was to assess the determinants of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) service quality among adolescents. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional survey of four adolescent health facilities in the Tema Metropolis, Ghana. A structured questionnaire was administered to 420 adolescent clients. Data were analyzed with the aid of Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software, version 23.0. Results were presented using uni-, bi-, and multivariate analyses. Results: Majority (69.0%) of the respondents were females and students (62.0%), with a mean age of 16 years. It was found that of the five (5) quality of care dimensions, four dimensions were significantly associated with overall perception of quality. These include provider attitudes (β = 0.234, p < 0.05); facility characteristics (β = 0.128, p < 0.05); appropriateness of services (β = 0.108, p < 0.05); and health literacy (β = 0.208, p < 0.05). However, equity and nondiscrimination had no significant association with overall perception of the quality of care. Conclusions: Adolescents perceived the quality of SRH services to be good. Adolescents’ perceptions were influenced by positive provider attitudes, availability of age-appropriate sexual and reproductive health services, friendly hospital environment, and availability of sexual and reproductive health information. This study sends a strong message to stakeholders who have interest in adolescent health, well-being, and development.