African Tropical Medicine and Health | 27 October 2006
Health Literacy and Access to Healthcare Services in Nairobi's Slums: A Longitudinal Assessment
M, u, g, o, O, c, h, i, e, n, g, ,, K, a, m, a, u, G, i, t, o, n, g, a
Abstract
Nairobi's slums face significant health challenges due to limited access to healthcare services and inadequate health literacy levels. A longitudinal study employing mixed-methods approach including quantitative surveys (\(N=200)\) and qualitative interviews (\(n=30)\). Data was analysed using SPSS for statistical significance testing. Quantitative survey results indicated that only 45% of respondents had adequate health literacy, with a significant proportion reporting frequent healthcare service barriers such as cost and distance. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve health literacy and accessibility in Nairobi’s slums. Implement community-based education programmes focused on improving health knowledge and establish closer healthcare facilities within these communities.