Mbarara's youth corners unutilized: Addressing low health service uptake

Despite substantial investments in youth-friendly services by health authorities and organizations, health facilities in Uganda, including those in Mbarara City, are struggling to engage young people in essential health services.

According to the Ministry of Health, while efforts have been made to establish dedicated youth corners at health centers, the uptake of sexual and reproductive health services among adolescents and young adults remains low, highlighting a significant challenge in public health.

Dr. Agatha Twinamatsiko, the in charge of Ruti Health Center II, identifies a critical barrier contributing to the low youth attendance: inadequate space for confidentiality.

"Privacy is crucial for adolescents, particularly regarding sensitive issues like sexual and reproductive health. Many young people feel uncomfortable accessing services where confidentiality cannot be guaranteed," Dr. Agatha explains.

National statistics from the Ministry of Health indicate that approximately 40% of youth aged 15-24 are hesitant to visit health facilities due to concerns about privacy and confidentiality.

In addition to privacy concerns, Dr. Agatha Twinamatsiko highlights the lack of recreational activities at health facilities as a significant factor in diminishing youth engagement.

"We have youth corners set up at health centers, but they often remain empty due to a lack of engaging activities. These spaces could be more inviting with the addition of recreational games and interactive programs," she notes.

According to recent data, about 60% of health facilities with youth corners report low utilization rates, primarily due to the absence of recreational and interactive features.

The HIV focal person Mbarara city, Dr. Dorcus Twinabaitu, offers an alternative perspective, suggesting that the problem may also stem from the expectations and attitudes of young people.

"We provide youth-friendly services, but many youths seem to desire luxury rather than essential care," Dr. Twinebeitu states.

The DREAMS program, which focuses on empowering adolescent girls and young women while reducing HIV infections, is one of the key initiatives in place.

Despite its availability, uptake remains low. National figures show that only 30% of eligible young women actively engage with the program, indicating a disconnect between the services provided and the needs or desires of the youth.

She also noted that they have gone an extra mile to have peer educator in various academic institutions in the city like Bishop Stuart University where the SRHR services are Mobile but these youths are not concerned about their own sexuality.

" Youth need to change their attitude and embrace these services and information. This way, we shall be able to reduce cases of unwanted pregnancy and STIs"

Dr. Twinabaitu emphasizes that health services should focus on delivering essential information and care rather than luxury. "Currently, our facilities offer crucial health information, not luxury.

The youth need to shift their focus towards valuing and utilizing the available health services," she argues. With over 60% of young people in Uganda expressing dissatisfaction with the quality of health services, there is a clear need for improved communication and education regarding the importance of utilizing these services.

Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from both government and non-governmental organizations. Dr. Twinabaitu suggests that enhancing youth corners with recreational activities and interactive programs could significantly improve youth attendance at health facilities.

"With support from partners and the government, we can introduce activities that make these spaces more engaging, potentially leading to increased youth participation and better health outcomes," she concludes.

The Ministry of Health has acknowledged this need, with plans to integrate more engaging activities and privacy improvements in future health facility upgrades.

While Uganda’s health facilities are equipped with youth-friendly services, the underutilisation of youth corners and the lack of engaging activities are major barriers to improving health outcomes for young people.