Abstract

The major purpose of this study was to identify the differences in priorities of nutrition service needs between the service provider and consumers (general population). Identification of the personal characteristics which influence the priorities of nutrition service needs among the general population was also examined. An interview survey using a questionnaire was conducted to collect the data required for analysis. The questionnaire included the priorities of various nutrition service needs as well as the personal characteristics of the study subjects. The study subjects were 300 residents over 40 years of age, and 15 health workers representing health center service personnel in Kyounggi province. Wilcoxon Rank Sums test were adopted to analize the differences in priority between the service providers and consumers. The results showed that priority of nutrition service needs for provider were significantly different from that of consumer. Gender, age, family type, and education levels of the population were the significant factors affecting the differences in priorities for nutrition service needs among consumers (general population). Out of the results, it could be suggested that consumers need should be considered in developing nutrition services to promote nutrition services utilization in health centers. The results may also suggest that one of the causes for the low utilization rate of nutrition services in health centers was the provider oriented program development regardless of the needs of consumers.

• Keywords: nutrition service needs; health center; priorities