INTEGRATING NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASE SCREENING INTOFREE PRIMARY HEALTHCARE SERVICES: IMPLICATIONS FORUNIVERSAL HEALTH COVERAGE IN NIGERIA

In Nigeria, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as a significant public health problem although they have not been well incorporated into primary health care screening. The study examined the integration of non-communicable disease screening services in free primary healthcare services and its impact on universal health coverage in Nigeria. The goals were to determine the preparedness of free PHC services to integrate screening for non-communicable diseases and to explore the implications of integrating NCD screening to achieve UHC. Data obtained from policy documents, national reports, and empirical studies were used alongside data set of 250 primary healthcare facilities in Nigeria. For purposes of a quantitative cross-sectional design. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were used. The results showed that the readiness index for the health department was 0.48, reflecting significant shortcomings in diagnostic infrastructure, financing, and screening guidelines, while the capacity of the health department workforce and outreach was moderately developed. The regression results indicated that screening integration was a significant predictor of universal health coverage outcomes, with a good amount of explained variance (R² = 0.71, p < 0.001). The study concludes that readiness alone is not enough, but integration of screening services would significantly increase the coverage of services, financial protection, and health system efficiency. The study therefore calls for investments in integration infrastructure, financing and workforce development. The study is important in informing policy changes towards the strengthening of primary healthcare systems in Nigeria. KEYWORDS: Non-Communicable Diseases, Primary Healthcare, Universal Health Coverage, Nigeria