African Dietetics Practice | 19 September 2001
Methodological Evaluation of Urban Primary Care Networks in Nigeria Using Quasi-Experimental Design: A Meta-Analysis
C, h, i, n, e, d, u, I, f, e, y, i, n, f, a, ,, O, s, a, z, e, O, k, e, z, i, e, ,, O, b, i, o, m, a, U, k, a, c, h, u, k, w, u, ,, N, s, o, f, o, r, A, n, y, a, n, w, u, n, w, a
Abstract
Urban primary care networks (PCNs) in Nigeria aim to improve access to healthcare services but face methodological challenges. A meta-analysis was conducted, synthesizing data from multiple studies that employed quasi-experimental designs to assess clinical outcomes in primary care settings across Nigeria. The analysis utilised statistical models to account for study heterogeneity. The synthesis revealed significant variability in the effectiveness of PCNs on patient health outcomes, with some interventions showing improvement but others lacking robust evidence. While quasi-experimental designs provided valuable insights into potential benefits and areas needing further research, methodological inconsistencies across studies hindered a comprehensive understanding of their efficacy. Future research should prioritise rigorous study design to enhance the validity and reliability of outcomes assessments in urban primary care networks. urban primary care networks, quasi-experimental design, clinical outcomes, meta-analysis Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p<em>i)=\beta</em>0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.