Efficiency of citizen participation on healthcare service delivery in Sirisia sub-county, Bungoma county, Kenya

Abstract

With the onset of Kenya’s devolution in March 2013 as provided for in the new Constitution of Kenya of 2010, healthcare resources have been at the dispensation of the counties. However, health service delivery in Sirisia Sub County has generally lagged behind in comparison to other Sub Counties in Bungoma County. The general objective of this study was to examine the efficiency of citizen participation on healthcare service delivery in Sirisia sub-County. Specifically, this study tested the hypotheses that there is no significant relationship between efficiency of citizen participation on healthcare service delivery in Sirisia Sub-County, Kenya. The study used empowerment theory. Both correlational and descriptive research designs were used. The target population was 17659 household heads and 107 healthcare workers in Sirisia Sub-County. 32 (30%) healthcare workers and 376 household heads in the Sub-County were selected. The healthcare workers were purposively selected while the households were randomly selected. The study relied on both primary and secondary data. Data was analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative analysis. For descriptive analysis, both mean and standard deviation were computed. Inferential statistics of Correlation, Regression and ANOVA were used in the study. Results are presented using figures such as tables, charts and graphs. Results also established that improvement in efficiency of citizen participation is likely to have a commendable effect on service delivery at the health facilities (r=.617**; P=.000). The study also noted that the null hypothesis was rejected, implying that there is a statistical relationship between the efficiency of citizen participation and healthcare service delivery. The study recommends that in order to achieve the main goal of public participation, there is need to create structures, mechanisms and guidelines for citizen participation. Secondly, there is need for the study area to come up with a comprehensive public participation process which should involve all the stakeholders in the health sector. The results are expected to benefit the hospital staff, the health departments at the counties, Citizens of Sirisia Sub-County, both public and private health care providers in Bungoma County, scholars, researchers and other stakeholders in Kenya.