Abstract

The effective utilization of health statistics is critical to evidence-based decision-making in healthcare institutions. Despite the routine generation of health data in Nigerian teaching hospitals, the extent to which these statistics are utilized varies widely and is influenced by multiple institutional and individual factors. This study investigated the factors influencing the utilization of health statistics for decisionmaking at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Rivers State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was adopted. The population comprised 92 healthcare professionals involved in health data generation, management, and decision-making processes. A sample size of 75 respondents was selected using a multistage sampling technique and Taro Yamane’s formula. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Factors Influencing Health Statistics Utilization Questionnaire (FIHSUQ). Descriptive statistical methods were employed for data analysis. The findings revealed that key factors influencing utilization include the availability and quality of data, staff competencies, management support, technological infrastructure, and organizational culture. Major constraints identified were inadequate training, limited access to data analysis tools, and weak institutional policies on data use. The study concludes that improving health statistics utilization at UPTH requires addressing both human and institutional capacity gaps. Recommendations include strengthening training programs, improving health information systems, and institutionalizing policies that promote data-driven decision-making