Health center staff perceptions of gender and equity in the Conakry health region, Guinea (2025): a cross-sectional survey.

BACKGROUND

Gender and equity are critical determinants of health and healthcare access. The perceptions of health workers can shape how gender and equity are integrated into primary care services, influencing both the quality and fairness of care delivery.

OBJECTIVE

To assess health center staff perceptions of gender and equity in the Conakry health region, Guinea.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in 19 health centers across the five communes of Conakry. The study included 412 health workers: physicians, nurses, midwives, technicians, and other patient-facing staff. Perceptions of gender and equity were measured using a structured questionnaire, and data were analyzed with descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

Health workers predominantly held a biological view of gender, with most agreeing that biological characteristics mainly determine gender and that men's and women's roles are naturally different. A large proportion did not perceive gender as influencing daily work, career progression, or patient treatment. Despite generally positive views on organizational equity, the visibility of formal gender-related policies and structures was limited. More than half of the participants reported the absence of a gender-equity policy or focal point, while a strong majority supported training and sensitization on gender and equity.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary health care staff in Conakry report limited recognition of gender's influence in their professional setting, alongside weak institutionalization of gender-responsive mechanisms, yet express a strong demand for targeted capacity-building. Strengthening policies, establishing clear focal points, and linking training to practical implementation tools are key opportunities for reinforcing gender and equity in Guinea's primary health care system.