Profile of the study area

Profile of the study area

This section is very relevant to help your readers know exactly where your study was conducted and also the rationale for selecting such an area for your study. In writing this section, all or most of this information should be provided. 

Practical Example

In this example, participants are assumed to be recruited through the outpatient department of the hospital. 

1. Introduction to Manhyia Hospital

• Manhyia Hospital is a prominent healthcare facility located in [mention city and region, if necessary], serving a diverse population in the surrounding area. The hospital is known for providing comprehensive medical services, including both inpatient and outpatient care.

• The choice of Manhyia Hospital as the study site is due to its high patient turnover and the diversity of cases seen in the Outpatient Department (OPD), making it suitable for [mention the purpose of your research, e.g., understanding patient experiences, assessing service delivery, etc.].

2. Geographical and Physical Description

• The hospital is situated in [describe location details, such as being in a central urban area or close to major transportation routes]. This strategic location allows for easy accessibility to patients from both urban and peri-urban communities.

• The hospital facility includes [briefly mention key facilities, such as emergency rooms, surgical units, and specialized clinics, if relevant to your study].

3. Description of the Outpatient Department (OPD)

• The OPD at Manhyia Hospital is a bustling unit that handles a significant volume of patients daily. It provides services ranging from general consultations and diagnostics to follow-up care and specialist referrals.

• On average, the OPD serves [mention any available data or approximate numbers, if known] patients per day, making it a key point of contact for community healthcare.

• The department operates from [mention operating hours] and features [describe setup, such as multiple consultation rooms, a waiting area, and triage facilities].

4. Patient Demographics and Profile

• The patient population at the OPD is diverse, with individuals from various socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. Most patients are [describe general demographic trends, such as age distribution or common health concerns].

• The OPD provides care for conditions ranging from minor illnesses to chronic disease management, and it plays a critical role in preventive health initiatives.

5. Relevance to the Study

• Recruiting participants from the OPD is significant because it allows access to a wide range of patients, which is essential for [state the specific objectives of your research]. The high patient volume and diverse demographics at the OPD facilitate a comprehensive understanding of [mention what you are studying, e.g., patient satisfaction, treatment adherence, etc.].

• Additionally, the OPD setting provides a unique opportunity to observe interactions between healthcare providers and patients, which is relevant for studies on [mention any aspect like communication, service efficiency, or patient outcomes].