Leprosy capacity in health facilities and among health workers: A baseline survey in Nigeria

Introduction: Leprosy remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, and early diagnosis and prompt treatment are key to preventing lifelong disabilities and interrupting disease transmission. Early detection and treatment depend on the availability and capacity of health service providers at all levels. This study aimed to determine the current leprosy services provided and the health workforce and to assess their knowledge of leprosy in the facilities where the Ready4PEP project will be implemented.

Methods: A cross-sectional mixed-method baseline study was conducted among health workers across 12 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in six states in Nigeria. Health workers from 37 health facilities were selected, and quantitative and qualitative data were collected using Open Data Kit (ODK) mobile data collection tool. Data collected were related to the number of health workers providing leprosy services in the health facilities, the health workers’ willingness to diagnose and treat leprosy patients, and the performance of leprosy multidrug therapy (MDT) officers.

Results: A total of 51 MDT officers were reported by the 37 health facilities. Only five MDT officers working in the health facility and interviewed indicated having general knowledge of leprosy among the studied health facilities. Most health facilities could not provide leprosy and disability services despite being reachable to patients, having health workers willing to treat leprosy patients, and the possibility of providing MDT free of charge.

Conclusion: There is a considerable decline in the capacity of leprosy control service delivery among healthcare workers in Nigeria. This calls for action by all stakeholders to address the trend.