Health workers competency is very critical in realization of quality health care which is a major pillar of Universal Health Coverage. Access to quality maternal and child health care is very essential for curbing the maternal and child mortalities which are global concerns. This study assessed the influence of healthcare provider competency on Universal Health Coverage utilization in Seme Sub County, Kisumu County. The study targeted community households and health facility managers. The health facilities were stratified according to their tiers and randomly sampled. The catchment population was stratified by locations and a proportionate sampling technique applied in each stratum giving a computed sample of 377 participants. The descriptive statistics were summarized using tables and charts, while logistic regression was used to determine relationship between variables. The results revealed that quite a number of health service providers are not competent enough in their departments of operation and there is no periodic training on new guidelines. This study further revealed a statistical effect on competency of health service provider on UHC (OR=2.29, 95%CI=1.02-5.15, p=0.044). Healthcare service provider competency levels have direct significant influence on utilization of UHC services by community members.

Keywords: Universal health coverage, Utilization, Health service provider, Competency