Why we seek treatment here: retail pharmacy and clinical practice in Maiduguri, Nigeria

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Periodical article

Title:	Why we seek treatment here: retail pharmacy and clinical practice in Maiduguri, Nigeria
Author:	Igun, U.A.
Year:	1987
Periodical:	Annals of Borno
Volume:	4
Pages:	203-215
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Northern Nigeria
Subjects:	health care medicinal drugs distribution
Abstract:	This study, based on interviews with 418 persons treated for various health problems at two retail pharmacies in Maiduguri, Nigeria, in 1979, sought to know why the population uses the retail pharmacies as outpatient clinics, despite the presence in Maiduguri of several hospitals. The reason most frequently given by respondents for their use of retail pharmacies was 'expeditious action in consultation and treatment', followed by 'efficacy of treatment' and 'convenience' (nearest source). There was no significant relationship between the reasons given and demographic background except age. The single most important advantage of retail pharmacy treatment over hospital treatment cited by respondents was 'expeditious treatment', followed by 'availability of unadulterated drugs at all times'. The majority of the respondents were in the habit of using retail pharmacies whenever they had an illness. Relatives and friends had a significant influence on the decision to seek treatment at the retail pharmacy. The range of health problems reported for treatment was very wide, with malaria the most frequently reported. The most frequent treatment given was antibiotic chemotherapy by injection or orally. Bibliogr.