Determinant factors for the utilization of routine health information in private health facilities of Gondar City administration, Northwest, Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Routine health information systems (RHISs) are essential for evidence-based planning and decision-making in the health sector. However, their utilization in Ethiopia's private health sector remains under-examined. The limited quality and quantity of RHIS data further restrict their usefulness, particularly in private health facilities. This study aimed to assess the extent of RHIS data utilization and identify determinant factors among healthcare providers in private health facilities in Gondar, Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia. Objective: To evaluate the utilization of routine health information and its associated factors among healthcare providers in private health facilities within the Gondar City Administration. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from 8 July to 24 August 2022, involving 400 healthcare providers selected from 20 private health facilities. The data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to managers, health workers, and health informatics professionals. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, and binary logistic regression was employed to identify significant determinants. Variables with a p-value <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Routine health information utilization was reported by 53% of respondents. Educational status, professional category, and departmental assignment were significant determinants (p < 0.05). The mean age of respondents was 28 years. The majority were male (68%) and held BSc degrees; approximately 188 (47%) worked in outpatient departments. Educational status, profession, and working units were found to be positively associated with utilization of health information, while having no performance standard was found to be negatively associated. Conclusion: The moderate level of RHIS utilization underscores the need for targeted capacity building, on-the-job training, and stronger integration of private health facilities into the national RHIS framework.