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Mapulanga M, Kgarosi K, Maluleke K, Hlongwa M, Dlungwane T. Evidence of community health workers' delivery of physical rehabilitation services in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e079738. [PMID: 38816054 PMCID: PMC11141183 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-079738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To map the evidence and scope of physical rehabilitation services delivered by community health workers (CHWs) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). DESIGN Scoping review DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central and databases within the EBSCOhost platform. We also searched other literature sources including reference lists, conference presentations and organisational websites such as WHO, Ministries of Health and non-governmental organisations in SSA. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTION OF STUDIES Articles presenting evidence on CHWs' delivery of physical rehabilitation services in SSA from September 1978 to June 2023. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Screening was conducted by two reviewers and was guided by the inclusion criteria. Thematic content analysis of data was employed. The results are presented according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis extension for scoping reviews. RESULTS A total of 6996 articles were identified through various databases, with only 20 studies qualifying for data extraction. Evidence was presented by Eritrea, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, South Africa and Uganda. Assessments, case management, health education, community liaison with support, health systems linkage and administration were the CHWs' scope of practice identified. The review identified home-based, community-based, community and facility-based, home and community-based and facility-based as modes of delivery. The barriers experienced are resources, societal and community attitudes, governance, geographical barriers and delivery capacity, while proximity to the community, positive job attitude and support with collaboration facilitated service delivery. CONCLUSION Training and integrating CHWs in national health care systems, with careful selection of existing CHWs, would minimise the barriers faced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Mapulanga
- Discipline of Public Health, School of Nursing and Public Health Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KZN, South Africa
- Research Unit, Lusaka Environmental Health University, Lusaka, Zambia, Zambia
| | - Kabelo Kgarosi
- Department of Library Services, Faculty of Health Sciences University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Kuhlula Maluleke
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- Discipline of Public Health, School of Nursing and Public Health Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KZN, South Africa
- Public Health, Societies and Belonging, Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Thembelihle Dlungwane
- Discipline of Public Health, School of Nursing and Public Health Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KZN, South Africa
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Kalu M, Okoh A, Okeke C, Anieto E, Ibekaku M, Abaraogu U. Qualitative research in physiotherapy: A systematic mapping review of 20 years literature from sub-Saharan Africa. Physiother Theory Pract 2023; 39:704-726. [PMID: 35098872 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2022.2028952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
STUDY AIM To summarize the current state and quality of qualitative research conducted by physiotherapists in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). METHODS We systematically searched multiple databases from 2000 to December 2020 and included peer-reviewed qualitative studies conducted by physiotherapists in SSA countries. Two reviewers independently screened citations, extracted data, and assessed the quality of the included studies using the 45-items checklist by Lundgren, and colleagues. Conventional content analysis was employed to create physiotherapy subject areas from the included studies. RESULTS We included 114 studies, a majority of 84 (74%) conducted in South Africa. Included studies were categorized into five subject areas: sports (n = 2), disability (n = 16), professional practice (n = 24), education and training (n = 36), and care provision (n = 36). We rated 74 (65%), 29 (25%), and 11 (10%) of the included research as low reporting quality, moderate- and high reporting quality, respectively. There was a significant lack of reporting on researchers' team characteristics, reflexivity, and member checking. CONCLUSION We conclude that the reporting of published qualitative studies in SSA shows variable quality, albeit mostly low, focused mainly on care provision, education, and training. Physiotherapy-researchers are encouraged to report reflexive practice and member checking when conducting qualitative research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kalu
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, 1400 Main Street West Institute for Applied Health Sciences (IAHS) Building, L8S 1C7 Hamilton, ON Canada
- Emerging Researchers and Professionals in Ageing-African Network, Nigeria
| | - Augustine Okoh
- Emerging Researchers and Professionals in Ageing-African Network, Nigeria
- Faculty of Health Science, McMaster University, 1200 Main Street West, L8N 3Z5, Hamilton ON, Canada
| | - Chukwuebuka Okeke
- Emerging Researchers and Professionals in Ageing-African Network, Nigeria
| | - Ebuka Anieto
- Emerging Researchers and Professionals in Ageing-African Network, Nigeria
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Cape Town, 7700 Rondesbosh, Cape Town, South Africa
- Medical Rehabilitation Department, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Nigeria
| | - Michael Ibekaku
- Emerging Researchers and Professionals in Ageing-African Network, Nigeria
| | - Ukachukwu Abaraogu
- Physiotherapy and Paramedicine School of Health and Life Sciences Glasgow Caledonian University, Cowcaddens Road, GA 0BA Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria
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Chetty L, Cobbing S, Chetty V. The perceptions of older people living with hiv/aids towards physical activity and exercise. AIDS Res Ther 2022; 19:67. [PMID: 36575436 PMCID: PMC9795653 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-022-00500-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older people living with HIV (OPLWH) require significant levels of support, including healthcare and rehabilitation interventions. People living with HIV are living longer, but still experience health-related impairments that affect functional activity, participation in day-to-day interactions, livelihoods and overall quality of life. Physical activity and exercise should be included as part of the comprehensive medical management for OPLWH but the investigation of prior studies reveal a gap in understanding and prescription. Our study aimed to explore the perceptions of OPLWH about physical activity and exercise. METHODS The study adopted a phenomenological, qualitative design, using in-depth interviews, to understand OPLWH perceptions of physical activity and exercise, and their need for, and access to, physical activity and exercise programmes in a community in South Africa. Nine [9] males and seven [7] females participated in the study. RESULTS Sixteen individuals voluntarily participated in face-to-face, semi-structured interviews which took place at the healthcare facility where they received regular treatment. All participants were 50 years and older. Personal gratification and the ability to perform activities of daily living as well as participate in community activities were believed to be strong motivators for exercise participation, while barriers to exercise were attributed to physical health issues; lack of proper instruction as well as stigma associated with HIV status within their communities. Participants also favored a combination of aerobic, flexibility and strength activities, as well as proper supervision and instruction within a group exercise setting. CONCLUSION The qualitative nature of our study provided an in-depth understanding of the perceptions of OPLWH towards physical activity and exercise. Our study highlighted the factors that hinder adherence to physical activity and exercise in this population. Many indicated that they would love to engage in structured physical activity programmes, but did not know where, when or how to begin. Creating a suitable environment with proper supervision and instruction by suitably qualified health professionals are essential when developing a community-based exercise programme for OPLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levin Chetty
- grid.16463.360000 0001 0723 4123Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Private Bag X54001, Durban, 4000 Westville South Africa
| | - Saul Cobbing
- grid.16463.360000 0001 0723 4123Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Private Bag X54001, Durban, 4000 Westville South Africa
| | - Verusia Chetty
- grid.16463.360000 0001 0723 4123Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Private Bag X54001, Durban, 4000 Westville South Africa
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Khumalo GE, Lutge E, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Exploring how outreach team leaders perceive community health workers' experiences of providing HIV services in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH : AJAR 2022; 21:239-250. [PMID: 36102053 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2022.2060841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: In 2018, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health launched the ward-based primary health care outreach teams policy framework which sought to expand the community health worker (CHW) programme's provision of longitudinal patient support, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) services in communities. This study sought to explore the perceptions of outreach team leaders who supervise CHWs on their experiences of providing HIV services in the province.Study design: This was a qualitative, phenomenology study.Methods: Convenience sampling was done to select one outreach team leader from each of the 11 KwaZulu-Natal health districts to be interviewed using an interview guide. Thematic analysis, guided by the Ritchie and Spencer framework analysis, was used to analyse the data.Results: The challenges faced by CHWs in delivering HIV services were: the absence of individuals when CHWs visited their homes, self-HIV stigma, rejection of CHWs' HIV services due to traditional beliefs, CHW shortages, lack of other resources, low levels of CWH education and a lack of training. On the other hand, the provision of HIV services was fascilitated by: supportive supervision, training, having cell phones and having a positive attitude towards providing HIV services by CHWs that were HIV-positive.Conclusion: The CHWs in KwaZulu-Natal face more challenges than enablers in the provision of HIV services. The delegation of HIV services to CHWs should be aligned with their holistic empowerment by eliminating barriers to the provision of HIV services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gugulethu E Khumalo
- Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing & Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Health Research & Knowledge Management Unit, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Elizabeth Lutge
- Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing & Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Health Research & Knowledge Management Unit, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Tivani P Mashamba-Thompson
- Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing & Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Prinshof Campus, Pretoria, South Africa
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Khumalo GE, Lutge EE, Naidoo P, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Barriers and facilitators of rendering HIV services by community health workers in sub-Saharan Africa: a meta-synthesis. Fam Med Community Health 2021; 9:fmch-2021-000958. [PMID: 34561220 PMCID: PMC8475151 DOI: 10.1136/fmch-2021-000958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To synthesise qualitative studies that address the barriers to and facilitators of providing HIV services by community health workers (CHWs) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Design This meta-synthesis was guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. We included studies that were published between 2009 and 2019. The Ritchie and Spencer framework and the Supporting the Use of Research Evidence framework were used for thematic analysis and framework analysis, respectively. The Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument was used to assess the quality of selected studies. Eligibility criteria Qualitative studies published between 2009 and 2019, that included CHWs linked directly or indirectly to the Ministry of Health and providing HIV services in the communities. Information sources An extensive search was conducted on the following databases: EBSCOhost- (ERIC; Health Source-Nursing/Academic Edition; MEDLINE Full Text), Google Scholar and PubMed. Results Barriers to rendering of HIV services by CHWs were community HIV stigma; lack of CHW respect, CHWs’ poor education and training; poor stakeholders’ involvement; poor access to the communities; shortage of CHWs; unsatisfactory incentives; lack of CHW support and supervision, lack of equipment and supplies and social barriers due to culture, language and political structures. The altruistic behaviour of CHWs and the availability of job facilitated the provision of HIV services. Conclusion The delivery of HIV services by CHWs in SSA is faced by more lingering barriers than facilitators. Planners and policymakers can minimise the barriers by investing in both CHW and community training regarding HIV services. Furthermore, sufficient funding should be allocated to the programme to ensure its efficiency. PROSPERO registration number CRD42020160012.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gugulethu Eve Khumalo
- Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal College of Health Sciences, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa .,Health Research and Knowledge Management Unit, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Elizabeth E Lutge
- Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal College of Health Sciences, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,Health Research and Knowledge Management Unit, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Praba Naidoo
- Library, University of KwaZulu-Natal Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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Vader K, Carusone SC, Aubry R, Ahluwalia P, Murray C, Baxter L, Robinson G, Ibáñez-Carrasco F, Stewart A, Solomon P, O'Brien KK. Strengths and Challenges of Implementing Physiotherapy in an HIV Community-Based Care Setting: A Qualitative Study of Perspectives of People Living with HIV and Healthcare Providers. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2021; 20:23259582211005628. [PMID: 33779374 PMCID: PMC8010811 DOI: 10.1177/23259582211005628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The needs of people living with HIV (PLWH) who have access to antiretroviral therapy have shifted from hospital to community care; however, little is known about physiotherapy within HIV community-based care. Our aim was to understand strengths and challenges of implementing physiotherapy within an interprofessional HIV day health program in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. We conducted a qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Fifteen PLWH and 5 healthcare providers participated. Strengths included improved access to physiotherapy and fulfilling an unmet need for rehabilitation; a tailored approach to physiotherapy; co-location improved communication, coordination, and engagement in care; and improved health outcomes for PLWH (i.e. function, psychosocial outcomes, and quality of life). Challenges related to managing expectations; variable attendance at visits; and managing complex and diverse needs of PLWH. Results may be transferable to other community-based care settings that provide care for PLWH and complex multi-morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Vader
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Chronic Pain Clinic, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Rachel Aubry
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ann Stewart
- St. Michael's Academic Family Health Team, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patricia Solomon
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kelly K O'Brien
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Participants' Reflections on a Home-Based Rehabilitation Intervention for People Living With HIV in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2020; 30:218-223. [PMID: 30822293 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Rehabilitation for people living with HIV (PLWH) can improve physical function and reduce activity limitations common in this population. Institution-based rehabilitation interventions are often difficult to access, particularly in resource-constrained communities. Our study used semistructured interviews to describe the experiences of eight PLWH involved in a novel home-based rehabilitation intervention in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Participants reported a number of physical and mental benefits related to their involvement in this 4-month intervention. They further described a number of extrinsic and intrinsic facilitators that enabled them to continue to exercise and, in some cases, to return to work, 1 year after the intervention. These facilitators helped them face various life challenges, which included stigma related to their HIV status and disability and continued poverty and hunger. The findings of our study support calls for alternative accessible rehabilitation options for PLWH in resource-constrained communities.
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Cobbing S, Hanass-Hancock J, Myezwa H. Assessing home-based rehabilitation within the development of an integrated model of care for people living with HIV in a resource-poor community. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2017; 9:e1-e8. [PMID: 28893078 PMCID: PMC5594236 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v9i1.1374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People living with HIV (PLHIV) are living longer lives but are at a greater risk of developing disability. South Africa has the largest antiretroviral therapy (ART) programme in the world, shifting HIV from a deadly to a chronic disease. The integration of rehabilitation into chronic care is therefore now crucial to ensure the highest quality of life of PLHIV. Aim To describe how a home-based rehabilitation (HBR) programme adhered to the fundamental principles of a theoretical model of integrated care developed for the study setting in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Method The process and results from the HBR programme were assessed in relation to the model of care to ascertain which principles of the model were addressed with the HBR programme and which elements require further investigation. Results The HBR programme was able to apply a number of principles such as evidence-based practice, task shifting to lay personnel, enabling patient-centred care and maximising function and independence of PLHIV. Other elements such as the adoption of a multidisciplinary approach, training on the use of disability screening tools and the use of evidence to influence policy development were more difficult to implement. Conclusion It is possible to implement elements of the integrated model of care. Further research is needed to understand how principles that require further training and collaboration with other stakeholders can be implemented. The results of this study provide additional evidence towards understanding the feasibility of the theoretical model and what is required to adjust and test the full model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saul Cobbing
- Department of Physiotherapy, Westville Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal.
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