Barriers and Facilitators to Patient Accessibility of Nuclear Medicine Services in Nigeria: A Social Science Perspective

Introduction Access to nuclear medicine services remains a critical challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Nigeria, where advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies are concentrated in a few urban centres. Despite the clinical importance of nuclear medicine in managing cancer and non-communicable diseases, patient-centred research exploring the social dimensions of accessibility is limited. This study examined the barriers and facilitators influencing patient accessibility to nuclear medicine services at University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Nigeria, from a social science perspective. Methods A qualitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted, using Max Weber’s Social Action Theory as the theoretical framework. Data was collected through 36 in-depth interviews with patients, 16 case studies, and 11 key informant interviews with healthcare providers and administrators. The data were analysed thematically using MaxQDA software. Results Three significant barriers emerged. First, financial constraints proved overwhelming, with patients paying between ₦80,000 and ₦750,000 for radioiodine therapy alone, excluding costs for accommodation, transportation, and subsistence. Second, geographic accessibility posed significant challenges, as patients had to travel long distances from across Nigeria due to the concentration of services in Ibadan. Thirdly, limited-service availability, including shortages of radiopharmaceuticals and equipment, further constrained access. Social support networks, particularly family and community contributions, emerged as the primary facilitator, enabling patients to overcome financial barriers through collective resource mobilisation. Conclusion Patient accessibility to nuclear medicine services in Nigeria is severely constrained by financial, geographic, and systemic barriers. The heavy reliance on informal social support networks highlights the absence of adequate health financing mechanisms. Policy interventions should prioritise expanding health insurance coverage for cancer care, expanding nuclear medicine services, and strengthening healthcare financing systems.