Information Needs of Local Government Health Workers in Yobe State

This study assessed the information needs of health workers employed in local government primary health care centres in Yobe State, North East Nigeria. Primary health care workers at the local government level require up-to-date clinical, public health, and administrative information to deliver effective services in resource-limited settings. A descriptive survey design was employed, and data were collected from 160 nurses, community health extension workers, and health records officers in twelve primary health care centres across four local government areas using structured questionnaires. The study found that respondents most urgently needed information on disease management protocols, immunisation schedules, maternal and child health guidelines, and drug interactions. Printed government guidelines were the most relied upon information source, but these were often outdated. Internet access was available to fewer than a third of respondents due to poor connectivity in rural areas. The study recommended that the Yobe State Ministry of Health distribute regularly updated printed clinical guides, establish a digital health information portal, and partner with the state library to provide health information outreach to primary health care centres. Keywords: information needs, health workers, primary health care, Yobe State, North East Nigeria.