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Malemo LK, Yap A, Mitume B, Salmon C, Karafuli K, Poenaru D, Onyango R. Essential surgery delivery in the Northern Kivu Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. BMC Surg 2024; 24:95. [PMID: 38519894 PMCID: PMC10958871 DOI: 10.1186/s12893-024-02386-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Surgical services are an essential part of a functional healthcare system, but the Lancet Commission of Global Surgery (LCoGS) indicators of surgical capacity such as perioperative workforce and surgical volume are unknown in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We aimed to determine the surgical capacity and its associated factors within the DRC. METHODS Hospitals were assessed in the North Kivu province of the DRC. Hospital characteristics and surgical rates were determined using the WHO-PGSSC hospital assessment tool and operating room (OR) registries. The primary outcome of interest was the number of Bellwether operations (i.e. Caesarean sections, laparotomies, and external fixation for bone fractures) per 100,000 people. Univariate and multiple linear regressions were performed. Primary predictors were the number of trained surgeons, anaesthesiologists, and obstetricians (SAOs) and the number of perioperative providers (including clinical officers and nurse anaesthetists) per 100,000 people. RESULTS Twenty-eight hospitals in North Kivu were assessed over one year in 2021; 24 (86%) were first-level referral health centres while 4 (14%) were second-level referral hospitals. In total, 11,176 Bellwether procedures were performed in the region in one year. Rates per 100,000 people were 1,461 Bellwether surgical interventions, 1.05 SAOs, and 13.1 perioperative providers. In univariate linear regression analysis, each additional SAO added 239 additional cases annually (p = 0.023), while each additional perioperative provider added 110 cases annually (p < 0.001). In our multiple regression analysis adjusting for other hospital services, the association between workforce and Bellwether surgeries was no longer significant. CONCLUSIONS The surgical workforce in DRC did not meet the LCoGS benchmark of 20 SAOs per 100,000 people but was not an independent predictor of surgical capacity. Major investment is needed to simultaneously bolster healthcare facilities and increase surgical workforce training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc Kalisya Malemo
- School of Medicine, The University of Goma, Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo.
| | - Ava Yap
- Center of Health Equity in Surgery and Anesthesia, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Boniface Mitume
- Department of Computer Engineering, Université Officielle de Ruwenzori, Butembo, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Christian Salmon
- Centre for Global Health Engineering, Department of Engineering Management and Industrial Engineering, Western New England University, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Kambale Karafuli
- Université Libre des Pays des Grands Lacs, Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Dan Poenaru
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Rosebella Onyango
- Department of Community Health and Development, Great Lakes University of Kisumu, Kisumu, Kenya
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Bencheikh N, Zarrintan S, Quatramoni JG, Al-Nouri O, Malas M, Gaffey AC. Vascular Surgery in Low-Income and Middle-Income Countries: A State-of-the-Art Review. Ann Vasc Surg 2023; 95:297-306. [PMID: 37285965 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2023.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents 32% of all global deaths. Studies have shown an increase in CVD prevalence and mortality with the most substantial increase in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). Within LMICs, we sought to 1) measure the burden of CVD with respect to aortic aneurysm (AA), ischemic stroke (IS), and peripheral arterial disease (PAD); 2) quantify surgical access to vascular surgery services; and 3) identify challenges and solutions to addressing disparities. METHODS The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation Global Burden of Disease Results Tool was used to assess the global burden of CVD (AA, PAD, IS). Population data were extracted from the World Bank & Workforce data. A literature review was completed through PubMed. RESULTS The number of deaths attributable to AA, PAD, and IS in LMICs increased by up to 102% between 1990 and 2019. Disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) lost to AA, PAD, and IS in LMICs also increased by up to 67%. High-income countries (HIC) had a less considerable increase in deaths and DALYs during this time period. There are 101 and 72.7 vascular surgeons per 10 million people in the United States and United Kingdom, respectively. LMICs, such as Morocco, Iran, and South Africa have 10 times less this number. Ethiopia has 0.25 vascular surgeons per 10 million people, 400 times less than the United States. Interventions addressing these global disparities should address infrastructure and financing, data collection and sharing, patient knowledge and beliefs, and workforce development. CONCLUSIONS Extreme regional discrepancies are evidence at a global scale. Identifying mechanisms to expand the vascular surgical workforce to meet the increasing need for vascular surgical access is imminent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nissma Bencheikh
- Division of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, UC San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Sina Zarrintan
- Division of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, UC San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | | | - Omar Al-Nouri
- Division of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, UC San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Mahmoud Malas
- Division of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, UC San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Ann C Gaffey
- Division of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, UC San Diego, San Diego, CA.
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Ifeanyichi M, Aune E, Shrime M, Gajewski J, Pittalis C, Kachimba J, Borgstein E, Brugha R, Baltussen R, Bijlmakers L. Financing of surgery and anaesthesia in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e051617. [PMID: 34667008 PMCID: PMC8527159 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to provide an overview of current knowledge and situational analysis of financing of surgery and anaesthesia across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). SETTING Surgical and anaesthesia services across all levels of care-primary, secondary and tertiary. DESIGN We performed a scoping review of scientific databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Global Health and African Index Medicus), grey literature and websites of development organisations. Screening and data extraction were conducted by two independent reviewers and abstracted data were summarised using thematic narrative synthesis per the financing domains: mobilisation, pooling and purchasing. RESULTS The search resulted in 5533 unique articles among which 149 met the inclusion criteria: 132 were related to mobilisation, 17 to pooling and 5 to purchasing. Neglect of surgery in national health priorities is widespread in SSA, and no report was found on national level surgical expenditures or budgetary allocations. Financial protection mechanisms are weak or non-existent; poor patients often forego care or face financial catastrophes in seeking care, even in the context of universal public financing (free care) initiatives. CONCLUSION Financing of surgical and anaesthesia care in SSA is as poor as it is underinvestigated, calling for increased national prioritisation and tracking of surgical funding. Improving availability, accessibility and affordability of surgical and anaesthesia care require comprehensive and inclusive policy formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martilord Ifeanyichi
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- EMAI Health Systems and Health Services Consulting, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ellis Aune
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mark Shrime
- Institute of Global Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jakub Gajewski
- Institute of Global Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Chiara Pittalis
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - John Kachimba
- Department of Surgery, University of Zambia University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Eric Borgstein
- College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Ruairi Brugha
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rob Baltussen
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Leon Bijlmakers
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Stewart BT, Gyedu A, Goodman SK, Boakye G, Scott JW, Donkor P, Mock C. Injured and broke: The impacts of the Ghana National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) on service delivery and catastrophic health expenditure among seriously injured children. Afr J Emerg Med 2021; 11:144-151. [PMID: 33680736 PMCID: PMC7910164 DOI: 10.1016/j.afjem.2020.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Ghana implemented a National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in 2003 as a step toward universal health coverage. We aimed to determine the effect of the NHIS on timeliness of care, mortality, and catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) among children with serious injuries at a trauma center in Ghana. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of injured children aged <18 years who required surgery (i.e., proxy for serious injury) at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital from 2015 to 2016. Household income data was obtained from the Ghana Statistical Service. CHE was defined as out-of-pocket payments to annual household income ≥10%. Differences in insured and uninsured children were described. Multivariable regression was used to assess the effect of NHIS on time to surgery, length of stay, in-hospital mortality, out-of-pocket expenditure and CHE. Results Of the 263 children who met inclusion criteria, 70% were insured. Mechanism of injury, triage scores and Kampala Trauma Score II were similar in both groups (all p > 0.10). Uninsured children were more likely to have a delay in care for financial reasons (17.3 vs 6.4%, p < 0.001) than insured children, and the families of uninsured children paid a median of 1.7 times more out-of-pocket costs than families with insured children (p < 0.001). Eighty-six percent of families of uninsured children experienced CHE compared to 54% of families of insured children (p < 0.001); however, 64% of all families experienced CHE. Insurance was protective against CHE (aOR 0.21, 95%CI 0.08–0.55). Conclusions NHIS did not improve timeliness of care, length of stay or mortality. Although NHIS did provide some financial risk protection for families, it did not eliminate out-of-pocket payments. The families of most seriously injured children experienced CHE, regardless of insurance status. NHIS and similar financial risk pooling schemes could be strengthened to better provide financial risk protection and promote quality of care for injured children. Despite strides toward universal health coverage with the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in Ghana, one third of injured children did not have insurance. Families on uninsured injured children pay markedly more out-of-pocket costs than families of insured children. Although families of uninsured children were more likely to experience catastrophic health expenditure (CHE), CHE was commonly experienced regardless of insurance. These findings have useful implications for NHIS, agencies working toward universal health coverage, and trauma systems generally.
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Knowledge deficits and barriers to performing soft-tissue coverage procedures: An analysis of participants in an orthopaedic surgical skills training course in Mexico. OTA Int 2019; 2:e044. [PMID: 33937672 PMCID: PMC7997122 DOI: 10.1097/oi9.0000000000000044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background: An increasing number of traumatic injuries in low- and low-middle-income countries (LICs/LMICs) have coexisting injuries requiring soft-tissue coverage (flaps). Yet, there is a lack of subspecialty care and flap training in Latin America. This study assesses the effectiveness of a surgical skills training course in improving rotational and free flap knowledge and identifies barriers to performing these types of flaps. Methods: Participants attending a surgical skills training course in Guadalajara, Mexico completed a pre/postcourse flaps knowledge survey consisting of 15 questions from the plastic surgery in-training examination and also completed a 7-point Likert survey regarding perceived barriers to performing flaps at their institution. Results: Of the course participants, 17 (44.7%) completed the precourse knowledge survey, 24 (63.2%) completed the postcourse survey, and 37 (97.4%) completed the barriers survey. Scores improved from pre- to postcourse knowledge surveys (39.6% to 53.6%, P = .005). Plastic surgery subsection scores also improved (39.0% to 60.4%, P = .003). Twenty-five percent of attendees received prior flap training and had plastic surgeons available to perform flaps. Few participants (38.9%) reported flap procedures being commonly completed at their hospitals. Participants stating that flaps were uncommon in their hospital reported more institutional barriers and less access to dermatomes. These participants also reported lack of operating room and surgical personnel availability. Conclusion: A surgical skills training course may be useful in improving knowledge of soft-tissue coverage procedures. There are also modifiable physician and institutional barriers that can improve the ability to perform rotational and free flaps as identified by the course participants.
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Barriers to Performing Soft Tissue Reconstruction Procedures among Orthopedic Surgeons in Low- and Middle-income Countries: Results of a Surgical Skills Training Course. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2019; 7:e2420. [PMID: 31772876 PMCID: PMC6846298 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000002420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Appropriate management of soft tissue injury associated with orthopedic trauma is challenging in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to the lack of available reconstructive surgeons. The Surgical Management and Reconstructive Training (SMART) course teaches orthopedic surgeons reconstructive techniques aimed at improving soft tissue management. This study aims to identify additional barriers to implementing these techniques for surgeons in LMICs who have attended SMART courses.
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Improving Benchmarks for Global Surgery: Nationwide Enumeration of Operations Performed in Ghana. Ann Surg 2019; 268:282-288. [PMID: 28806300 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000002457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the operation rate in Ghana and characterize it by types of procedures and hospital level. BACKGROUND The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery recommended an annual rate of 5000 operations/100,000 people as a benchmark at which low- and middle-income countries could achieve most of the population-wide benefits of surgery, but did not define procedure-type benchmarks. METHODS Data on operations performed from June 2014 to May 2015 were obtained from representative samples of 48 of 124 district-level (first-level) hospitals, 9 of 11 regional (referral) hospitals, and 3 of 5 tertiary hospitals, and scaled-up to nationwide estimates. Operations were categorized into those deemed as essential procedures (most cost-effective, highest population impact) by the World Bank's Disease Control Priorities Project versus other. RESULTS An estimated 232,776 [95% uncertainty interval (95% UI) 178,004 to 287,549] operations were performed nationally. The annual rate of operations was 869 of 100,000 (95% UI 664 to 1073). The rate fell well short of the benchmark. 77% of the estimated annual national surgical output was in the essential procedure category. Most operations (62%) were performed at district-level hospitals. Most district-level hospitals (54%) did not have fully trained surgeons, but nonetheless performed 36% of district-level hospital operations. CONCLUSION The operation rate was short of the Lancet Commission benchmark, indicating large unmet need, although most operations were in the essential procedure category. Future global surgery benchmarking should consider both total numbers and priority levels. Most surgical care was delivered at district-level hospitals, many without fully trained surgeons. Benchmarking to improve surgical care needs to address both access deficiencies and hospital and provider level.
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In-Country Training by the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons: An Initiative that has Aided Surgeon Retention and Distribution in Ghana. World J Surg 2018; 43:723-735. [DOI: 10.1007/s00268-018-4840-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Stewart BT, Gyedu A, Gaskill C, Boakye G, Quansah R, Donkor P, Volmink J, Mock C. Exploring the Relationship Between Surgical Capacity and Output in Ghana: Current Capacity Assessments May Not Tell the Whole Story. World J Surg 2018; 42:3065-3074. [PMID: 29536141 PMCID: PMC6543845 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-018-4589-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Capacity assessments serve as surrogates for surgical output in low- and middle-income countries where detailed registers do not exist. The relationship between surgical capacity and output was evaluated in Ghana to determine whether a more critical interpretation of capacity assessment data is needed on which to base health systems strengthening initiatives. METHODS A standardized surgical capacity assessment was performed at 37 hospitals nationwide using WHO guidelines; availability of 25 essential resources and capabilities was used to create a composite capacity score that ranged from 0 (no availability of essential resources) to 75 (constant availability) for each hospital. Data regarding the number of essential operations performed over 1 year, surgical specialties available, hospital beds, and functional operating rooms were also collected. The relationship between capacity and output was explored. RESULTS The median surgical capacity score was 37 [interquartile range (IQR) 29-48; range 20-56]. The median number of essential operations per year was 1480 (IQR 736-1932) at first-level hospitals; 1545 operations (IQR 984-2452) at referral hospitals; and 11,757 operations (IQR 3769-21,256) at tertiary hospitals. Surgical capacity and output were not correlated (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Contrary to current understanding, surgical capacity assessments may not accurately reflect surgical output. To improve the validity of surgical capacity assessments and facilitate maximal use of available resources, other factors that influence output should also be considered, including demand-side factors; supply-side factors and process elements; and health administration and management factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barclay T Stewart
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St., Suite BB-487, P.O. Box 356410, Seattle, WA, 98195-6410, USA.
- School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Adam Gyedu
- Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Cameron Gaskill
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St., Suite BB-487, P.O. Box 356410, Seattle, WA, 98195-6410, USA
- School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Godfred Boakye
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Robert Quansah
- Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Peter Donkor
- Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Jimmy Volmink
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Cochrane Centre, South African Medical Research Council, Parrow, South Africa
| | - Charles Mock
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St., Suite BB-487, P.O. Box 356410, Seattle, WA, 98195-6410, USA
- Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Barriers to Timely Presentation of Patients with Surgical Conditions at Tamale Teaching Hospital in Northern Ghana. World J Surg 2018; 43:346-352. [DOI: 10.1007/s00268-018-4800-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Chichom-Mefire A, Mbome Njie V, Verla V, Atashili J. A Retrospective One-Year Estimation of the Volume and Nature of Surgical and Anaesthetic Services Delivered to the Populations of the Fako Division of the South-West Region of Cameroon: An Urgent Call for Action. World J Surg 2017; 41:660-671. [PMID: 27778076 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-016-3775-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgery-related conditions account for the majority of admissions in primary referral hospitals in Sub-Saharan Africa. The role of surgery in the reduction of global disease burden is well recognized, but there is a great qualitative and quantitative disparity in the delivery of surgical and anaesthetic services between countries. This study aims at estimating the nature and volume of surgery delivered in an entire administrative division of Cameroon. METHODS In this retrospective survey conducted during the year 2013, we used a standard tool to analyse the infrastructure and human resources involved in the delivery of surgical and anaesthetic services in the Fako division in the south-west region of Cameroon. We also estimated the nature and volume of surgical services as a rate per catchment population. RESULTS Public, private and mission hospital contributed equally to the delivery of surgical services in the Fako. For every 100,000 people, there were <5 operative rooms. A total of 2460 surgical interventions were performed by 2.2 surgeons, 1.1 gynaecologists and 0.3 anaesthetists. These surgical interventions consisted mostly of minor and emergency procedures. Neurosurgery, paediatric, thoracic and endocrine surgery were almost non-existent. CONCLUSIONS The volume of surgery delivered in the Fako is far below the minimum rates required to meet up with the most basic requirements of the populations. It is likely that most of these surgical needs are left unattended. A community-based assessment of unmet surgical needs is necessary to accurately estimate the magnitude of the problem and guide surgical capacity improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Chichom-Mefire
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon. .,Department of Surgery and Obstetrics/Gynaecology, Regional Hospital Limbe, Limbe, Cameroon.
| | - Victor Mbome Njie
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon.,Regional Delegation of Public Health, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Vincent Verla
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Julius Atashili
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
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Carlson LC, Stewart BT, Hatcher KW, Kabetu C, VanderBurg R, Magee WP. A Model of the Unmet Need for Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. World J Surg 2017; 40:2857-2867. [PMID: 27417108 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-016-3637-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a significant unmet need for the cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) ; however, country-level estimates that can be used to inform local and international cleft care program strategies are lacking. METHODS Using data from Operation Smile surgical programs in twelve LMICs and country-level indicators from the World Health Organization and World Bank, we developed a model to estimate the proportion of individuals with CL/Ps older than respective surgery age targets for cleft lip and cleft palate surgery (1 and 2 years, respectively). After extrapolating this model to other LMICs with available indicator data, we combined these findings with estimates of CL/P prevalence among live births to estimate the total number of unrepaired CL/P cases in LMICs worldwide. RESULTS The models were constructed from a total of 887 cases of cleft palate and 576 cases of cleft lip across the twelve countries. From these, we estimated that there are 616,655 cases of unrepaired CL/P (95 % CI 564,893-678,503) in the 113 countries with available data for extrapolation. The rate of unrepaired CL/Ps ranged from 2.5 per 100,000 population in Romania to 28.5 per 100,000 in Cambodia, respectively (median rate 10.7 per 100,000 population). CONCLUSIONS Our model provides marked insight into the global surgical backlog due to cleft lip and palate. While the most populated LMICs have the largest number of unrepaired CL/Ps, low-income countries with relatively less healthcare infrastructure have exceptionally high rates (e.g., Cambodia, Afghanistan, and Nepal). These estimates can be used by local and international cleft care organizations to set program priorities, estimate resource requirements, and inform strategies to support cleft care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas C Carlson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 10 Vining St., Neville House-2nd Floor, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Barclay T Stewart
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Charles Kabetu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
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Cost-Effectiveness of a Locally Organized Surgical Outreach Mission: Making a Case for Strengthening Local Non-Governmental Organizations. World J Surg 2017; 41:3074-3082. [PMID: 28741201 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-017-4131-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Stewart BT, Carlson L, Hatcher KW, Sengupta A, Vander Burg R. Estimate of Unmet Need for Cleft Lip and/or Palate Surgery in India. JAMA FACIAL PLAST SU 2017; 18:354-61. [PMID: 27281157 DOI: 10.1001/jamafacial.2016.0474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The unmet need for cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) care in India is significant. However, estimates required for CL/P care program planning are lacking. OBJECTIVE To estimate the unmet need for CL/P surgery in India at the state level. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS To determine the proportion of individuals with CL/P who presented for care in India, data were used from patients who received care at Operation Smile programs in 12 low- and middle-income countries from June 1, 2013, to May 31, 2014. The resulting model describes the prevalent unmet need for cleft surgery in India by state and includes patients older than the surgery target ages of 1 and 2 years for cleft lip and cleft palate repair, respectively. Next, the total number of unrepaired CL/P cases in each state was estimated using state-level economic and health system indicators. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Prevalent unmet need for CL/P repair. RESULTS In the 28 states with available data, an estimated 72 637 cases of unrepaired CL/P (uncertainty interval, 58 644-97 870 cases) were detected. The percentage of individuals with unrepaired CL/P who were older than the respective target ages ranged from 37.0% (95% CI, 30.6%-43.8%) in Goa to 65.8% (95% CI, 60.3%-70.9%) in Bihar (median, 57.9%; interquartile range, 52.6%-63.4%). The rate of unrepaired CL/Ps ranged from less than 3.5 per 100 000 population in Kerala and Goa to 10.9 per 100 000 population in Bihar (median rate, 5.9 [interquartile range, 4.6-7.3] per 100 000 population). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE An estimated 72 000 cases of unrepaired CL/P are found in India. Poor states with less health care infrastructure have exceptionally high rates (eg, Bihar). These estimates are useful for informing international and national CL/P care strategies, allocating resources, and advocating for individuals and families affected by CL/P more broadly. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE NA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barclay T Stewart
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle2School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana3Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucas Carlson
- Harvard Affiliated Emergency Medicine Residency, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Stewart BT, Gyedu A, Tansley G, Yeboah D, Amponsah-Manu F, Mock C, Labi-Addo W, Quansah R. Orthopaedic Trauma Care Capacity Assessment and Strategic Planning in Ghana: Mapping a Way Forward. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2016; 98:e104. [PMID: 27926686 PMCID: PMC5133455 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.15.01299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Orthopaedic conditions incur more than 52 million disability-adjusted life years annually worldwide. This burden disproportionately affects low and middle-income countries, which are least equipped to provide orthopaedic care. We aimed to assess orthopaedic capacity in Ghana, describe spatial access to orthopaedic care, and identify hospitals that would most improve access to care if their capacity was improved. METHODS Seventeen perioperative and orthopaedic trauma care-related items were selected from the World Health Organization's Guidelines for Essential Trauma Care. Direct inspection and structured interviews with hospital staff were used to assess resource availability and factors contributing to deficiencies at 40 purposively sampled facilities. Cost-distance analyses described population-level spatial access to orthopaedic trauma care. Facilities for targeted capability improvement were identified through location-allocation modeling. RESULTS Orthopaedic trauma care assessment demonstrated marked deficiencies. Some deficient resources were low cost (e.g., spinal immobilization, closed reduction capabilities, and prosthetics for amputees). Resource nonavailability resulted from several contributing factors (e.g., absence of equipment, technology breakage, lack of training). Implants were commonly prohibitively expensive. Building basic orthopaedic care capacity at 15 hospitals without such capacity would improve spatial access to basic care from 74.9% to 83.0% of the population (uncertainty interval [UI] of 81.2% to 83.6%), providing access for an additional 2,169,714 Ghanaians. CONCLUSIONS The availability of several low-cost resources could be better supplied by improvements in organization and training for orthopaedic trauma care. There is a critical need to advocate and provide funding for orthopaedic resources. These initiatives might be particularly effective if aimed at hospitals that could provide care to a large proportion of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barclay T. Stewart
- Departments of Surgery (B.T.S. and C.M.) and Global Health (C.M.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington,School of Public Health (B.T.S.) and Department of Surgery (A.G., D.Y., and R.Q.), School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana,Department of Surgery, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana,Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa,E-mail address for B.T. Stewart:
| | - Adam Gyedu
- School of Public Health (B.T.S.) and Department of Surgery (A.G., D.Y., and R.Q.), School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana,Department of Surgery, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Gavin Tansley
- Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Dominic Yeboah
- School of Public Health (B.T.S.) and Department of Surgery (A.G., D.Y., and R.Q.), School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana,Department of Surgery, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Charles Mock
- Departments of Surgery (B.T.S. and C.M.) and Global Health (C.M.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington,Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Wilfred Labi-Addo
- Eastern Regional Health Directorate, Ghana Health Service, Ministry of Health, Koforidua, Ghana,St. Joseph Orthopaedic Hospital, Korforidua, Ghana
| | - Robert Quansah
- School of Public Health (B.T.S.) and Department of Surgery (A.G., D.Y., and R.Q.), School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana,Department of Surgery, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
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Stewart BT, Tansley G, Gyedu A, Ofosu A, Donkor P, Appiah-Denkyira E, Quansah R, Clarke DL, Volmink J, Mock C. Mapping Population-Level Spatial Access to Essential Surgical Care in Ghana Using Availability of Bellwether Procedures. JAMA Surg 2016; 151:e161239. [PMID: 27331865 PMCID: PMC5577012 DOI: 10.1001/jamasurg.2016.1239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Conditions that can be treated by surgery comprise more than 16% of the global disease burden. However, 5 billion people do not have access to essential surgical care. An estimated 90% of the 87 million disability-adjusted life-years incurred by surgical conditions could be averted by providing access to timely and safe surgery in low-income and middle-income countries. Population-level spatial access to essential surgery in Ghana is not known. OBJECTIVES To assess the performance of bellwether procedures (ie, open fracture repair, emergency laparotomy, and cesarean section) as a proxy for performing essential surgery more broadly, to map population-level spatial access to essential surgery, and to identify first-level referral hospitals that would most improve access to essential surgery if strengthened in Ghana. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Population-based study among all households and public and private not-for-profit hospitals in Ghana. Households were represented by georeferenced census data. First-level and second-level referral hospitals managed by the Ministry of Health and all tertiary hospitals were included. Surgical data were collected from January 1 to December 31, 2014. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES All procedures performed at first-level referral hospitals in Ghana in 2014 were used to sort each facility into 1 of the following 3 hospital groups: those without capability to perform all 3 bellwether procedures, those that performed 1 to 11 of each procedure, and those that performed at least 12 of each procedure. Candidates for targeted capability improvement were identified by cost-distance and network analysis. RESULTS Of 155 first-level referral hospitals managed by the Ghana Health Service and the Christian Health Association of Ghana, 123 (79.4%) reported surgical data. Ninety-five (77.2%) did not have the capability in 2014 to perform all 3 bellwether procedures, 24 (19.5%) performed 1 to 11 of each bellwether procedure, and 4 (3.3%) performed at least 12. The essential surgical procedure rate was greater in bellwether procedure-capable first-level referral hospitals than in noncapable hospitals (median, 638; interquartile range, 440-1418 vs 360; interquartile range, 0-896 procedures per 100 000 population; P = .03). Population-level spatial access within 2 hours to a hospital that performed 1 to 11 and at least 12 of each bellwether procedure was 83.2% (uncertainty interval [UI], 82.2%-83.4%) and 71.4% (UI, 64.4%-75.0%), respectively. Five hospitals were identified for targeted capability improvement. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Almost 30% of Ghanaians cannot access essential surgery within 2 hours. Bellwether capability is a useful metric for essential surgery more broadly. Similar strategic planning exercises might be useful for other low-income and middle-income countries aiming to improve access to essential surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barclay T Stewart
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle2Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana3Department of Surgery, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Gavin Tansley
- Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada5Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England
| | - Adam Gyedu
- Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana3Department of Surgery, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Anthony Ofosu
- Information and Monitoring Unit, Ghana Health Service, Accra
| | - Peter Donkor
- Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana3Department of Surgery, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Robert Quansah
- Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana3Department of Surgery, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Damian L Clarke
- Pietermaritzburg Metropolitan Trauma Service, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa9Department of General Surgery, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa
| | - Jimmy Volmink
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa11Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg
| | - Charles Mock
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle12Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center, Seattle, Washington13Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle
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Consensus recommendations for essential vascular care in low- and middle-income countries. J Vasc Surg 2016; 64:1770-1779.e1. [PMID: 27432199 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvs.2016.05.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are ill equipped to care for the large and growing burden of vascular conditions. We aimed to develop essential vascular care recommendations that would be feasible for implementation at nearly every setting worldwide, regardless of national income. METHODS The normative Delphi method was used to achieve consensus on essential vascular care resources among 27 experts in multiple areas of vascular care and public health as well as with experience in LMIC health care. Five anonymous, iterative rounds of survey with controlled feedback and a statistical response were used to reach consensus on essential vascular care resources. RESULTS The matrices provide recommendations for 92 vascular care resources at each of the four levels of care in most LMICs, comprising primary health centers and first-level, referral, and tertiary hospitals. The recommendations include essential and desirable resources and encompass the following categories: screening, counseling, and evaluation; diagnostics; medical care; surgical care; equipment and supplies; and medications. CONCLUSIONS The resources recommended have the potential to improve the ability of LMIC health care systems to respond to the large and growing burden of vascular conditions. Many of these resources can be provided with thoughtful planning and organization, without significant increases in cost. However, the resources must be incorporated into a framework that includes surveillance of vascular conditions, monitoring and evaluation of vascular capacity and care, a well functioning prehospital and interhospital transport system, and vascular training for existing and future health care providers.
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Barriers to essential surgical care experienced by women in the two northernmost regions of Ghana: a cross-sectional survey. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2016; 16:27. [PMID: 27230890 PMCID: PMC4882854 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-016-0308-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women in developing countries might experience certain barriers to care more frequently than men. We aimed to describe barriers to essential surgical care that women face in five communities in Ghana. METHODS Questions regarding potential barriers were asked during surgical outreaches to five communities in the northernmost regions of Ghana. Responses were scored in three dimensions from 0 to 18 (i.e., 'acceptability,' 'affordability,' and 'accessibility'; 18 implied no barriers). A barrier to care index out of 10 was derived (10 implied no barriers). An open-ended question to elicit gender-specific barriers was also asked. RESULTS Of the 320 participants approached, 315 responded (response rate 98 %); 149 were women (47 %). Women had a slightly lower barriers to surgical care index (median index 7.4; IQR 3.9-9.1) than men (7.9; IQR 3.9-9.4; p = 0.002). Compared with men, women had lower accessibility and acceptability dimension scores (14.4/18 vs 14.4/18; p = 0.001 and 13.5/18 vs 14/18; p = 0.05, respectively), but similar affordability scores (13.5/18 vs 13.5/18; p = 0.13). Factors contributing to low dimension scores among women included fear of anesthesia, lack of social support, and difficulty navigating healthcare, as well as lack of hospital privacy and confidentiality. CONCLUSION Women had a slightly lower barriers to surgical care index than men, which may indicate greater barriers to surgical care. However, the actual significance of this difference is not yet known. Community-level education regarding the safety and benefits of essential surgical care is needed. Additionally, healthcare facilities must ensure a private and confidential care environment. These interventions might ameliorate some barriers to essential surgical care for women in Ghana, as well as other LMICs more broadly.
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