Objective: This study was carried out as part of a recent evaluation of the upgrading of primary health care centres in rural and semi
urban communities in south-western Nigeria. The aim of the study was to identify reasons for dissatisfaction with primary health care
services in a semi-urban community in south-western Nigeria. Methods: A community based descriptive cross-sectional study of 393
respondents was conducted using a semi structured questionnaire. Results: Over half of the respondents (227; 57.8%) were males. Age
ranged between 18 and 73 years with a median age of 35 years. About one third of participants had a total household income of more
than N20,000 per month (US$1= N160). The main reasons for dissatisfaction were waiting time 188 (48%) and availability of drugs 154
(39.2%). Overall 8.9% (95%CI 4.86-12.9) of participants were dissatisfied with the general quality of the service. Being male, middle aged,
having income above N 20,000 monthly and having tertiary level of education were factors found to be associated with dissatisfaction
(P<0.05). Those who were generally satisfied with services were more likely to utilize the health facilities again (P<0.001) and to
recommend the services to others (P<0.001). Conclusion: Waiting time and availability of drugs were the most prominent concerns of
respondents. It is essential that regular evaluation of primary health care services is conducted to encourage utilization by clients.
Regular evaluation will hopefully promote client-oriented health services.