Nutritional services in primary healthcare in the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina: strengthening prevention through multidisciplinary approaches.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the provision of nutritional services in primary healthcare facilities (PHCs) in the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a focus on differences between departments, namely Family Medicine, Pediatrics, and Gynecology.

METHODS

A mixed-methods design was applied, combining a cross-sectional quantitative survey and qualitative focus group discussions. The quantitative component included 50 PHC facilities, while qualitative data were collected through three focus groups with healthcare professionals.

RESULTS

Services related to the improvement of nutrition and the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were provided by 92.4% of PHCs, while 80.5% monitored the nutritional status of the population. Key barriers included lack of time, insufficient staffing, limited financial incentives, and the absence of standardized guidelines. Significant differences in the reported lack of time were found between departments (F = 4.402, p < 0.05), specifically between the Gynecology and Family Medicine departments.

CONCLUSION

Findings from healthcare personnel highlight the need for a systemic reorganization of service provision, the development of standardized nutritional guidelines, and the strengthening of preventive services through multidisciplinary approaches.