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Endalamaw A, Gilks CF, Ambaw F, Shiferaw WS, Assefa Y. Explaining inequity in knowledge, attitude, and services related to HIV/AIDS: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1815. [PMID: 38978024 PMCID: PMC11229290 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19329-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Equitable service provision and coverage are important responses to end the threat of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Understanding inequity supports policies and programmes to deliver tailored interventions. There is continuous evidence generation on inequity in HIV/AIDS services. However, there was a lack of evidence on the global picture of inequity in behavioural and biomedical services related to HIV/AIDS. This systematic review assessed inequities in knowledge, attitude, HIV testing, and ART coverage across individual-level social groups and multiple (dis)advantage categories. METHODS This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline, with a PROSPERO registration number CRD42024521247. The risk of bias was assessed by using Hoy et al's and Joanna Brigg's quality appraisal checklists for cross-sectional quantitative and qualitative studies, respectively. The search date was from inception to the final database search date (May 29, 2023). The included articles were either quantitative or qualitative studies. We used mixed-methods approach to analyse the data from the review articles. Quantitative descriptive analysis was conducted to estimate frequency of articles published from different countries around the world. Qualitative content analysis of the findings from the original studies was conducted using the PROGRESS plus framework which stands for: place of residence, occupation or employment status, gender, religion, education status, socioeconomic status, and social capital. RESULTS Out of 6,029 articles that were accessed and screened, only 72 articles met the inclusion criteria. More articles on HIV-related equity in knowledge, attitude, testing, and ART were published in developed countries than in developing countries. Individuals from higher-income households had better knowledge about HIV/AIDS. Unfavourable attitudes towards people living with HIV and HIV/AIDS-associated stigma were common among women. HIV/AIDS service coverage (HIV testing or ART coverage) was higher among richer and urban residents. HIV/AIDS-associated stigma and lower levels of knowledge about HIV/AIDS were observed among multiple disadvantageous groups due to the intersection of two or more identities. CONCLUSIONS The current review revealed that there have been disparities in HIV/AIDS services between social classes. Ending service disparity towards the global threat of HIV/AIDS demands tailored interventions based on socially disadvantaged groups (e.g., poor, rural dwellers, and women) and intersectional determinants. There is a need to understand the deep-rooted causes of inequity and the challenges that an equity-oriented system faces over time. More studies on inequity are needed, including intersectional inequity, which has been rarely studied in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aklilu Endalamaw
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
| | - Charles F Gilks
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Fentie Ambaw
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Wondimeneh Shibabaw Shiferaw
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Yibeltal Assefa
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Ansah EW, Maneen S, Ephraim A, Ocloo JEY, Barnes MN, Botha NN. Politics-evidence conflict in national health policy making in Africa: a scoping review. Health Res Policy Syst 2024; 22:47. [PMID: 38622666 PMCID: PMC11017532 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-024-01129-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Generally, public health policy-making is hardly a linear process and is characterized by interactions among politicians, institutions, researchers, technocrats and practitioners from diverse fields, as well as brokers, interest groups, financiers and a gamut of other actors. Meanwhile, most public health policies and systems in Africa appear to be built loosely on technical and scientific evidence, but with high political systems and ideologies. While studies on national health policies in Africa are growing, there seems to be inadequate evidence mapping on common themes and concepts across existing literature. PURPOSE The study seeks to explore the extent and type of evidence that exist on the conflict between politics and scientific evidence in the national health policy-making processes in Africa. METHODS A thorough literature search was done in PubMed, Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect, Dimensions, Taylor and Francis, Chicago Journals, Emerald Insight, JSTOR and Google Scholar. In total, 43 peer-reviewed articles were eligible and used for this review. RESULT We found that the conflicts to evidence usage in policy-making include competing interests and lack of commitment; global policy goals, interest/influence, power imbalance and funding, morals; and evidence-based approaches, self-sufficiency, collaboration among actors, policy priorities and existing structures. Barriers to the health policy process include fragmentation among actors, poor advocacy, lack of clarity on the agenda, inadequate evidence, inadequate consultation and corruption. The impact of the politics-evidence conflict includes policy agenda abrogation, suboptimal policy development success and policy implementation inadequacies. CONCLUSIONS We report that political interests in most cases influence policy-makers and other stakeholders to prioritize financial gains over the use of research evidence to policy goals and targets. This situation has the tendency for inadequate health policies with poor implementation gaps. Addressing these issues requires incorporating relevant evidence into health policies, making strong leadership, effective governance and a commitment to public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward W Ansah
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER), University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Samuel Maneen
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER), University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Anastasia Ephraim
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER), University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Janet E Y Ocloo
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER), University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Mabel N Barnes
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER), University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Nkosi N Botha
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER), University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
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Hill Z, Keraga D, Kiflie Alemayehu A, Schellenberg J, Magge H, Estifanos A. 'The objective was about not blaming one another': a qualitative study to explore how collaboration is experienced within quality improvement collaboratives in Ethiopia. Health Res Policy Syst 2023; 21:48. [PMID: 37312225 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-023-00986-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quality improvement collaboratives are a common approach to improving quality of care. They rely on collaboration across and within health facilities to enable and accelerate quality improvement. Originating in high-income settings, little is known about how collaboration transfers to low-income settings, despite the widespread use of these collaboratives. METHOD We explored collaboration within quality improvement collaboratives in Ethiopia through 42 in-depth interviews with staff of two hospitals and four health centers and three with quality improvement mentors. Data were analysed thematically using a deductive and inductive approach. RESULTS There was collaboration at learning sessions though experience sharing, co-learning and peer pressure. Respondents were used to a blaming environment, which they contrasted to the open and non-blaming environment at the learning sessions. Respondents formed new relationships that led to across facility practical support. Within facilities, those in the quality improvement team continued to collaborate through the plan-do-study-act cycles, although this required high engagement and support from mentors. Few staff were able to attend learning sessions and within facility transfer of quality improvement knowledge was rare. This affected broader participation and led to some resentment and resistance. Improved teamwork skills and behaviors occurred at individual rather than facility or systems level, with implications for sustainability. Challenges to collaboration included unequal participation, lack of knowledge transfer, high workloads, staff turnover and a culture of dependency. CONCLUSION We conclude that collaboration can occur and is valued within a traditionally hierarchical system, but may require explicit support at learning sessions and by mentors. More emphasis is needed on ensuring quality improvement knowledge transfer, buy-in and system level change. This could include a modified collaborative design to provide facility-level support for spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zelee Hill
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, Guilford St, WC1N 1EH, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Dorka Keraga
- Department of Reproductive, Family and Population Health, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Joanna Schellenberg
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Hema Magge
- Institute for Healthcare Improvement, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, United States of America
| | - Abiy Estifanos
- Department of Reproductive, Family and Population Health, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Bogale TN, Teklehaimanot SM, Fufa Debela T, Enyew DB, Nigusse Bedada A, Dufera Kebebew S, Nigusie Weldeab A, Wolde Daka D, Willems HJ, Bekele TA. Barriers, facilitators and motivators of electronic community health information system use among health workers in Ethiopia. Front Digit Health 2023; 5:1162239. [PMID: 37351371 PMCID: PMC10282640 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2023.1162239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The electronic community health information system (eCHIS) has been implemented in Ethiopia to support health services delivered by community health workers. Despite the many benefits of digitizing community health information systems, the implementation of the eCHIS is challenged by many barriers resulting in low uptake. This study assessed the barriers, facilitators, and motivators of eCHIS use among health workers with focus on health extension workers (HEWs) in Ethiopia. Methods Phenomenological approach was used to assess the barriers, facilitators and motivators of eCHIS use in Amhara, Harari, Oromia, Sidama, South West Ethiopia and Southern Nation Nationalities and People's regions of Ethiopia. Data were collected from 15-29 May 2022. A total of 54 face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted among HEWs, HEW supervisors, health information technicians and managers. The interviews were audiotaped using Open Data Kit, transcribed verbatim and translated into English. OpenCode 4.03 software was used for coding and categorizing the data. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Results The HEWs and other eCHIS users reported lack of infrastructure and resources; poor quality of training, follow-up, and supervision; parallel recording using the manual and electronic system; and HEWs' workload as barriers hindering eCHIS use. Data quality, retrievability, and traceability; tablet portability; encouragement from supervisors; and positive image in the community resulting from HEWs using tablets in their routine activities were the main facilitators of eCHIS use. Conclusion The study identified various barriers that adversely affect the use of eCHIS. An integrated and coordinated approach to eCHIS implementation that encompasses removing the barriers, and reinforcing facilitators is required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tilahun Fufa Debela
- Department of Health Service Management, School of Public Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Berhanie Enyew
- Department of Health Informatics, School of Public Health, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Adane Nigusie Weldeab
- Department of Health Promotion & Health Behavior, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Dawit Wolde Daka
- Department of Health Service Management, School of Public Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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5
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Mhazo AT, Maponga CC. Beyond political will: unpacking the drivers of (non) health reforms in sub-Saharan Africa. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:bmjgh-2022-010228. [PMID: 36455987 PMCID: PMC9717331 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2022-010228] [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: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lack of political will is frequently invoked as a rhetorical tool to explain the gap between commitment and action for health reforms in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, the concept remains vague, ill defined and risks being used as a scapegoat to actually examine what shapes reforms in a given context, and what to do about it. This study sought to go beyond the rhetoric of political will to gain a deeper understanding of what drives health reforms in SSA. METHODS We conducted a scoping review using Arksey and O'Malley (2005) to understand the drivers of health reforms in SSA. RESULTS We reviewed 84 published papers that focused on the politics of health reforms in SSA covering the period 2002-2022. Out of these, more than half of the papers covered aspects related to health financing, HIV/AIDS and maternal health with a dominant focus on policy agenda setting and formulation. We found that health reforms in SSA are influenced by six; often interconnected drivers namely (1) the distribution of costs and benefits arising from policy reforms; (2) the form and expression of power among actors; (3) the desire to win or stay in government; (4) political ideologies; (5) elite interests and (6) policy diffusion. CONCLUSION Political will is relevant but insufficient to drive health reform in SSA. A framework of differential reform politics that considers how the power and beliefs of policy elites is likely to shape policies within a given context can be useful in guiding future policy analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison T Mhazo
- Community Health Sciences Unit (CHSU), Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
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6
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Jessani NS, Williamson RT, Choonara S, Gautier L, Hoe C, Jafar SK, Khalid AF, Rodríguez Salas I, Turcotte-Tremblay AM, Rodríguez DC. Evidence attack in public health: Diverse actors' experiences with translating controversial or misrepresented evidence in health policy and systems research. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3043-3059. [PMID: 34996335 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.2020319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Bringing evidence into policy and practice discussions is political; more so when evidence from health studies or programme data are deemed controversial or unexpected, or when results are manipulated and misrepresented. Furthermore, opinion and misinformation in recent years has challenged our notions about how to achieve evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM). Health policy and systems (HPS) researchers and practitioners are battling misrepresentation that only serves to detract from important health issues or, worse, benefit powerful interests. This paper describes cases of politically and socially controversial evidence presented by researchers, practitioners and journalists during the Health Systems Research Symposium 2020. These cases cut across global contexts and range from public debates on vaccination, comprehensive sexual education, and tobacco to more inward debates around performance-based financing and EIDM in refugee policy. The consequences of engaging in controversial research include threats to commercial profit, perceived assaults on moral beliefs, censorship, fear of reprisal, and infodemics. Consequences for public health include research(er) hesitancy, contribution to corruption and leakage, researcher reflexivity, and ethical concerns within the HPS research and EIDM fields. Recommendations for supporting researchers, practitioners and advocates include better training and support structures for responding to controversy, safe spaces for sharing experiences, and modifying incentive structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasreen S Jessani
- Centre for Evidence-Based Health CareStellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Shakira Choonara
- Shakira Choonara Development Consulting, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lara Gautier
- Département de Gestion, d'Évaluation et de Politique de Santé, École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Connie Hoe
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sakeena K Jafar
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Irene Rodríguez Salas
- Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Health System Impact Fellowship, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Anne-Marie Turcotte-Tremblay
- Health & Science Section, La Nación Newspaper, San José, Costa Rica.,Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public health, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Daniela C Rodríguez
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Gile PP, van de Klundert J, Buljac-Samardzic M. Human resource management in Ethiopian public hospitals. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:763. [PMID: 35689209 PMCID: PMC9188153 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08046-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Ethiopia, public hospitals deal with a persistent human resource crisis, even by Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) standards. Policy and hospital reforms, however, have thus far resulted in limited progress towards addressing the strategic human resource management (SHRM) challenges Ethiopia’s public hospitals face. Methods To explore the contextual factors influencing these SHRM challenges of Ethiopian public hospitals, we conducted a qualitative study based on the Contextual SHRM framework of Paauwe. A total of 19 structured interviews were conducted with Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and HR managers from a purposive sample of 15 hospitals across Ethiopia. An additional four focus groups were held with professionals and managers. Results The study found that hospitals compete on the supply side for scarce resources, including skilled professionals. There was little reporting on demand-side competition for health services provided, service quality, and service innovation. Governmental regulations were the main institutional mechanism in place. These regulations also emphasized human resources and were perceived to tightly regulate employee numbers, salaries, and employment arrangements at detailed levels. These regulations were perceived to restrict the autonomy of hospitals regarding SHRM. Regulation-induced differences in allowances and external employment arrangements were among the concerns that decreased motivation and job satisfaction and caused employees to leave. The mismatch between regulation and workforce demands posed challenges for leadership and caused leaders to be perceived as incompetent and unable when they could not successfully address workforce needs. Conclusions Bottom-up involvement in SHRM may help resolve the aforementioned persistent problems. The Ethiopian government might better loosen regulations and provide more autonomy to hospitals to develop SHRM and implement mechanisms that emphasize the quality of the health services demanded rather than the quantity of human resources supplied. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-08046-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipos Petros Gile
- Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands and Higher Education Institutions' Partnership, CMC Road, PO Box 14051, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | - Joris van de Klundert
- Prince Mohammad Bin Salman College (MBSC) of Business and Entrepreneurship, 7082-BayLaSun-Juman St. Unit No. 1, King Abdullah Economic City, 23964-2522, Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Erasmus University Rotterdam, Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management, PO Box 1738, 3000, DR, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martina Buljac-Samardzic
- Erasmus University Rotterdam, Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management, PO Box 1738, 3000, DR, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Tesfay FH, Backholer K, Zorbas C, Bowe SJ, Alston L, Bennett CM. The Magnitude of NCD Risk Factors in Ethiopia: Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of Evidence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095316. [PMID: 35564716 PMCID: PMC9106049 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background: Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors are the leading contributors to morbidity and mortality globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries including Ethiopia. To date, there has been no synthesis of the literature on the relative prevalence of NCD risk factors in Ethiopia. Methodology: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of primary studies reporting on the prevalence of NCD risk factors in Ethiopia published in English from 2012 to July 2020. Pre-tested NCD search terms were applied to Medline, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and Global Health. Three reviewers screened and appraised the quality of the identified papers. Data extraction was conducted using a pilot tested proforma. Meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 16 and pooled prevalence estimated with associated 95% confidence intervals. Clinically heterogeneous studies that did not fulfil the eligibility criteria for meta-analysis were narratively synthesised. I2 was used to assess statistical heterogeneity. Results: 47 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and contributed 68 NCD risk factor prevalence estimates. Hypertension was the most frequently examined NCD risk factor, with a pooled prevalence of 21% (n = 27 studies). The pooled prevalence percentages for overweight and obesity were 19.2% and 10.3%, respectively (n = 7 studies each), with a combined prevalence of 26.8% (n = 1 study). It was not possible to pool the prevalence of alcohol consumption, smoking, metabolic disorders, or fruit consumption because of heterogeneity across studies. The prevalence of alcohol use, as reported from the included individual studies, ranged from 12.4% to 13.5% (n = 7 studies). More than 90% of participants met the WHO-recommended level of physical activity (n = 5 studies). The prevalence of smoking was highly variable, ranging between 0.8% and 38.6%, as was the prevalence of heavy alcohol drinking (12.4% to 21.1%, n = 6 studies) and metabolic syndrome (4.8% to 9.6%, n = 5 studies). Fruit consumption ranged from 1.5% up to the recommended level, but varied across geographic areas (n = 3 studies). Conclusion and recommendations: The prevalence of NCD risk factors in Ethiopia is relatively high. National NCD risk factor surveillance is required to inform the prioritisation of policies and interventions to reduce the NCD burden in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fisaha Haile Tesfay
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia; (K.B.); (C.Z.); (L.A.); (C.M.B.)
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Mekelle University, Mekelle P.O. Box 231, Ethiopia
- Correspondence:
| | - Kathryn Backholer
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia; (K.B.); (C.Z.); (L.A.); (C.M.B.)
| | - Christina Zorbas
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia; (K.B.); (C.Z.); (L.A.); (C.M.B.)
| | - Steven J. Bowe
- Deakin Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia;
| | - Laura Alston
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia; (K.B.); (C.Z.); (L.A.); (C.M.B.)
| | - Catherine M. Bennett
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia; (K.B.); (C.Z.); (L.A.); (C.M.B.)
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Estifanos AS, Gezahegn R, Keraga DW, Kifle A, Procureur F, Hill Z. 'The false reporter will get a praise and the one who reported truth will be discouraged': a qualitative study on intentional data falsification by frontline maternal and newborn healthcare workers in two regions in Ethiopia. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:bmjgh-2021-008260. [PMID: 35387770 PMCID: PMC8987673 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-008260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) are vital to ensure accountability and for making decisions including for tracking the Sustainable Development Goals. The Ethiopia Health Sector Transformation Plan II includes preventing data falsification as a major strategic initiative and our study aimed to explore the reasons why healthcare providers intentionally falsify maternal and newborn health (MNH) data in two regions of Ethiopia. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study in two hospitals, four health centres and their associated health posts in Oromia and Amhara regions. We conducted 45 in-depth interviews with health facility managers, quality improvement (QI) focal persons, health information technicians, MNH care providers, Health Extension Workers and QI mentors. Data were collected in local languages and transcribed in English. During analysis we repeatedly read the transcripts, coded them inductively using NVivo V.12, and categorised the codes into themes. RESULTS Participants were hesitant to report personal data falsification but many reported that falsification is common and that they had experienced it in other facilities or had been told about it by other health workers. Falsification was mostly inflating the number of services provided (such as deliveries). Decreasing the number of deaths or reclassifying neonatal death into stillbirths was also reported. An overarching theme was that the health system focuses on, and rewards, the number of services provided over any other metric. This focus led to both system and individual level incentives for falsification and disincentives for accurate reporting. CONCLUSION Our finding suggests that to reduce facility level data falsification policy makers might consider disentangling reward and punishments from the performance reports based on the routine HMIS data. Further studies examining the high-level drivers of falsification at regional, national and global levels and effective interventions to address the drivers of data falsification are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abiy Seifu Estifanos
- Department of Reproductive, Family and Population Health, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Rediet Gezahegn
- Department of Reproductive, Family and Population Health, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Dorka Woldesenbet Keraga
- Department of Reproductive, Family and Population Health, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Abiyou Kifle
- Institute for Healthcare Improvement, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Fanny Procureur
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Zelee Hill
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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Oladimeji OJ, Fatusi AO. Realist Evaluation of the "Abiye" Safe Motherhood Initiative in Nigeria: Unveiling the Black-Box of Program Implementation and Health System Strengthening. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2022; 2:779130. [PMID: 36925893 PMCID: PMC10012745 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2022.779130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Realist evaluation studies have spanned different aspects of medicine, especially in the field of public health. However, very few of these studies explicitly detailed how program implementation triggered outcomes that could strengthen understanding of its effect on Health System Strengthening in specific settings. In low- and middle-income countries, like Nigeria, there is a paucity of realist evaluation studies, despite the implementation of multiple intervention programs and projects in these countries. This article is aimed at unveiling the black-box of program implementation and Health System Strengthening of the "Abiye" Safe Motherhood Program in Ondo State, Nigeria. Specifically, it identified the role of contextual factors in the "Abiye" program in Ondo State, determined the mechanisms that facilitated or constrained outcomes of the "Abiye" program, and developed a Context Mechanism Outcome (CMO) Configuration from which a Middle Range Theory (MRT) can be framed. Methodology This was qualitative research structured along with the realist domains (Context, Mechanism, and Outcome). The Initial Program Theory was validated by the qualitative study, after which a new MRT was developed. The study population comprised key stakeholders, secondary stakeholders, and primary stakeholders in the Abiye safe motherhood program. Data was collected through 10 key informant interviews, 28 in-depth interviews, and six focus group discussions sessions. Thematic analysis was used to analyze all the qualitative data collected, and seven themes with 19 subthemes emerged in the study. Results We identified 13 contextual factors under five principal areas, with most of the factors playing enabling roles, some playing inhibitory roles, while very few played both roles. We elicited eight mechanisms, and some of these facilitated the outcomes, while some constrained the outcomes of the program. Health system strengthening was a key feature of the outcome of the program. We developed a middle-range theory based on the 6 CMO configurations we elicited from the study. Conclusion and Policy Implications Realist evaluation is an iterative process that looks beyond the surface to generate evidence. By applying the realist approach, we generated pieces of evidence that can be adapted for policymaking in public health interventions in LMIC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adesegun O Fatusi
- Academy for Health Development, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.,Office of the Vice-Chancellor, University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, Nigeria.,Department of Community Health, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
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Ludwick T, Endrias M, Morgan A, Kane S, McPake B. Moving From Community-Based to Health-Centre Based Management: Impact on Urban Community Health Worker Performance in Ethiopia. Health Policy Plan 2021; 37:169-188. [PMID: 34519336 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czab112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Community health worker (CHW) performance is influenced by the way in which management arrangements are configured vis-a-vis the community and health services. While low/middle-income contexts are changing, the literature provides few examples of country efforts to strategically modify management arrangements to support evolving CHW roles (e.g. chronic disease care) and operating environments (e.g. urbanization). This paper aims to understand the performance implications of changing from community-based to health centre-based management, on Ethiopia's Urban Health Extension Professionals (UHEPs), and the tensions/trade-offs associated with the respective arrangements. We conducted semi-structured interviews/focus groups to gather perspectives and preferences from those involved with the transition (13 managers/administrators, 5 facility-based health workers, 20 UHEPs). Using qualitative content analysis, we deductively coded data to four program elements impacted by changed management arrangements and known to affect CHW performance (work scope; community legitimacy; supervision/oversight/ownership; facility linkages) and inductively identified tensions/trade-offs. Community-based management was associated with wider work scope, stronger ownership/regular monitoring, weak technical support, and weak health center linkages, with opposite patterns observed for health center-led management. Practical trade-offs included: heavy UHEP involvement in political/administrative activities under Kebele-based management; resistance to working with UHEPs by facility-based workers; and, health centre capacity constraints in managing UHEPs. Whereas the Ministry of Health/UHEPs favoured health centre-led management to capitalize on UHEPs' technical skills, Kebele officials were vested in managing UHEPs and argued for community interests over UHEPs' professional interests; health facility managers/administrators held divided opinions. Management arrangements influence the nature of CHW contributions towards the achievement of health, development, and political goals. Decisions about appropriate management arrangements should align with the nature of CHW roles and consider implementation setting, including urbanization, political decentralization, and relative capacity of managing institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teralynn Ludwick
- Nossal Institute for Global Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 333 Exhibition Street, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Misganu Endrias
- Health Research and Technology Transfer Office, SNNPR Regional Health Bureau, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Alison Morgan
- Maternal Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit, Nossal Institute for Global Health Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Global Financing Facility, The World Bank Group, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sumit Kane
- Maternal Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit, Nossal Institute for Global Health Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Barbara McPake
- Nossal Institute for Global Health Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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12
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Areru HA, Dangisso MH, Lindtjørn B. Low and unequal use of outpatient health services in public primary health care facilities in southern Ethiopia: a facility-based cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:776. [PMID: 34362376 PMCID: PMC8344135 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06846-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Outpatient department visits per individual for each year are one of the core indicators of healthcare delivery to assess accessibility or quality of services. In addition, this study aimed to assess health service utilisation and disease patterns in southern Ethiopia, by including the health authorities' suggestions to improve the services. No study has assessed this in Ethiopia previously. METHODS An institution-based cross-sectional design study was done in 65 primary health care units in Dale and Wonsho districts, in Sidama region, for all patients visiting health facilities from 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018. We estimated the utilisation rate as visits per person per year, the odds ratio for health use and proportions of diseases' diagnoses. The results of our study were presented to local health authorities, and their suggestions for improvements were incorporated into the analysis. RESULT A total of 81,129 patients visited the health facilities. The annual outpatient health service utilisation was 0.18 (95% CI: 0.18-0.19) new visits per person per year. The health service utilisation rate per year for the rural population was lower than the urban utilisation by 91% (OR = 0.09; 95% CI: 0.08-0.09). Children in the age group of 5-14 years had lower odds of health service utilisation by 78% (OR = 0.22; 95% CI: 0.21-0.23), compared to children under 5 years of age. Females were four times (OR = 4.17; 95% CI: 4.09-4.25) more likely to utilise health services than males. Febrile illness constituted 17.9% (14,847 of 83,148) of the diagnoses in all age groups. Almost half of the febrile cases, 46.5% (3827 of 8233), were among children under 5 years of age. There were very few cases of non-communicable diseases diagnosed in the health facilities. The health authorities suggested improving diagnostic capacities at health centres, enhancing health professionals' skill and attitudes, and improving affordability and physical accessibility of the services. CONCLUSION The health service utilisation rate was low in Sidama. The use of health services was lower among rural residents, men, children and elderly, and health post users. Improving the quality, affordability and accessibility of the health services, by involving responsible stakeholders could increase service usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiwot Abera Areru
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, P.O.BOX: 1560, Hawassa, Ethiopia
- Global Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Mesay Hailu Dangisso
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, P.O.BOX: 1560, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Bernt Lindtjørn
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, P.O.BOX: 1560, Hawassa, Ethiopia
- Global Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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13
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Østebø MT, Østebø T, Tronvoll K. Health and politics in pandemic times: COVID-19 responses in Ethiopia. Health Policy Plan 2021; 36:1681-1689. [PMID: 34350456 PMCID: PMC8436378 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czab091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
With a focus on responses to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Ethiopia and on political developments that have occurred in the country during the pandemic, this article contributes to the existing scholarship that explores the relationship between health and politics. Drawing on qualitative data from the project ‘COVID-19 Impact Tracing in Ethiopia: Social, Economic, Political, and Security Ramifications’, carried out in the Tigray, Amhara and Oromia Regional States (RS) from June to September 2020, we offer new empirical and theoretical perspectives that shed light on the political status of health and health policies in Ethiopia and beyond. In all the three regions, COVID-19 and the government’s pandemic response was subject to politicization and securitization. The degree of securitization and politicization differed between the regions and fluctuated over time; in areas with strong opposition to political authorities, the COVID-19 mitigating efforts were—during the first phase of the pandemic—more politicized and securitized than in areas with less opposition. Yet, as the political opposition and instability increased, threatening national security and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s political project, the authorities and the public paid increasingly less attention to the pandemic and the mitigating policies. In our analysis of these dynamics, we draw on a classic distinction that scholars of global public health have borrowed from political science: that of ‘low’ and ‘high’ politics. We argue that a contextually situated use of the high/low distinction allows us to recognize the fleeting and context-dependent nature of health’s political status, providing valuable insights that help us understand the ways that health emerges and disappears as high politics. The temporal and inter-regional shifts that appeared in, and as a response to, Ethiopia’s pandemic policies illustrate the importance of a continuous analysis of the relationships between health and politics at national as well as at sub-national levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marit Tolo Østebø
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Terje Østebø
- Department of Religion and Center for African Studies, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kjetil Tronvoll
- Oslo Analytica, Bergslia 21, 0870 Oslo, Norway.,Bjørknes University College, Lovisenberggata 13, 0456 Oslo, Norway
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14
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Croke K. The origins of Ethiopia's primary health care expansion: The politics of state building and health system strengthening. Health Policy Plan 2021; 35:1318-1327. [PMID: 33169151 PMCID: PMC7886436 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czaa095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Ethiopia’s expansion of primary health care over the past 15 years has been hailed as a model in sub-Saharan Africa. A leader closely associated with the programme, Tedros Adhanom Gebreyesus, is now Director-General of the World Health Organization, and the global movement for expansion of primary health care often cites Ethiopia as a model. Starting in 2004, over 30 000 Health Extension Workers were trained and deployed in Ethiopia and over 2500 health centres and 15 000 village-level health posts were constructed. Ethiopia’s reforms are widely attributed to strong leadership and ‘political will’, but underlying factors that enabled adoption of these policies and implementation at scale are rarely analysed. This article uses a political economy lens to identify factors that enabled Ethiopia to surmount the challenges that have caused the failure of similar primary health programmes in other developing countries. The decision to focus on primary health care was rooted in the ruling party’s political strategy of prioritizing rural interests, which had enabled them to govern territory successfully as an insurgency. This wartime rural governance strategy included a primary healthcare programme, providing a model for the later national programme. After taking power, the ruling party created a centralized coalition of regional parties and prioritized extending state and party structures into rural areas. After a party split in 2001, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi consolidated power and implemented a ‘developmental state’ strategy. In the health sector, this included appointment of a series of dynamic Ministers of Health and the mobilization of significant resources for primary health care from donors. The ruling party’s ideology also emphasized mass participation in development activities, which became a central feature of health programmes. Attempts to translate this model to different circumstances should consider the distinctive features of the Ethiopian case, including both the benefits and costs of these strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Croke
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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15
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Schaaf M, Warthin C, Freedman L, Topp SM. The community health worker as service extender, cultural broker and social change agent: a critical interpretive synthesis of roles, intent and accountability. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 5:bmjgh-2020-002296. [PMID: 32546585 PMCID: PMC7299037 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-002296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper is a critical interpretive synthesis of community health workers (CHWs) and accountability in low-income and middle-income countries. The guiding questions were: What factors promote or undermine CHWs as accountability agents? (and) Can these factors be intentionally fostered or suppressed to impel health system accountability? We conducted an iterative search that included articles addressing the core issue of CHWs and accountability, and articles addressing ancillary issues that emerged in the initial search, such as 'CHWs and equity.'CHWs are intended to comprise a 'bridge' between community members and the formal health system. This bridge function is described in three key ways: service extender, cultural broker, social change agent. We identified several factors that shape the bridging function CHWs play, and thus, their role in fomenting health system accountability to communities, including the local political context, extent and nature of CHW interactions with other community-based structures, health system treatment of CHWs, community perceptions of CHWs, and extent and type of CHW unionisation and collectivisation.Synthesising these findings, we elaborated several analytic propositions relating to the self-reinforcing nature of the factors shaping CHWs' bridging function; the roles of local and national governance; and the human resource and material capacity of the health system. Importantly, community embeddedness, as defined by acceptability, social connections and expertise, is a crucial attribute of CHW ability to foment local government accountability to communities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caitlin Warthin
- Averting Maternal Death and Disability, Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lynn Freedman
- Averting Maternal Death and Disability, Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Stephanie M Topp
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
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16
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Lavers T. Aiming for Universal Health Coverage through insurance in Ethiopia: State infrastructural power and the challenge of enrolment. Soc Sci Med 2021; 282:114174. [PMID: 34175571 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Many developing countries are considering insurance as a means of pursuing Universal Health Coverage. A key challenge to confront is how to achieve high levels of health insurance enrolment. For voluntary schemes this entails mass awareness raising and promotional activity, though as schemes move to compulsory enrolment, monitoring and enforcement are required. This paper focuses on Ethiopia, which has made state health insurance for the informal sector a central pillar of its Universal Health Coverage strategy. The paper shows that high enrolment requires particular forms of state capacity, captured by Michael Mann's concept of state 'infrastructural power'. The paper draws on detailed case studies of insurance implementation in the Tigray and Oromiya regions of Ethiopia to illustrate variation in state infrastructural power and the implications for health insurance. Findings suggest that the potential of state health insurance as a means of promoting health access for a broad section of the population may be limited to the minority of countries or regions within countries exhibiting high levels of infrastructural power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Lavers
- Global Development Institute (GDI), University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom.
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17
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Bergen N, Ruckert A, Abebe L, Asfaw S, Kiros G, Mamo A, Morankar S, Kulkarni MA, Labonté R. Characterizing 'health equity' as a national health sector priority for maternal, newborn, and child health in Ethiopia. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1853386. [PMID: 33380284 PMCID: PMC7782227 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2020.1853386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The pursuit of health equity is a priority in Ethiopia, especially with regards to maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH). To date, there has been little characterization of the ‘problem’ of health inequity, and the normative assumptions implicit in the representation of the problem. Yet, such insights have implications for shaping the framing, incentivization, and implementation of health policies and their wider impact. Objective: In this article, we characterize how health (in)equity is represented as a policy issue, how this representation came about, and the underlying assumptions. Methods: We draw from Bacchi’s ‘what is the problem represented to be’ approach to explore how national-level actors in the health sector constitute the problem. The data for our analysis encompass 23 key informant interviews with national health sector actors working in leadership positions on MNCH in Ethiopia, and six policy documents. Findings were derived from thematic and content analysis. Results: Health inequity is a normalized and inevitable concern that is regarded as actionable (can be altered) but not fully resolvable (can never be fully achieved). Operationally, health equity is viewed as a technocratic matter, reflected in the widespread use of metrics to motivate and measure progress. These representations are shaped by Ethiopia’s rapid expansion of health services into rural areas during the 2000s leading to the positive international attention and funding the country received for improved MNCH indicators. Expanding the coverage and efficiency of health service provision, especially in rural areas, is associated with economic productivity. Conclusion: The metrication of health equity may detract from the fairness, justice, and morality underpinnings of the concept. The findings of this study point to the implications of global pressures in terms of maximizing health investments, and call into question how social, political, and economic determinants of health are addressed through broader development agendas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Bergen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Canada
| | - Arne Ruckert
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Canada
| | - Lakew Abebe
- Faculty of Public Health, Institute of Health, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University , Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Shifera Asfaw
- Faculty of Public Health, Institute of Health, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University , Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Getachew Kiros
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Canada
| | - Abebe Mamo
- Faculty of Public Health, Institute of Health, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University , Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Sudhakar Morankar
- Faculty of Public Health, Institute of Health, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University , Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Manisha A Kulkarni
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Canada
| | - Ronald Labonté
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Canada
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18
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Hampshire K, Mwase-Vuma T, Alemu K, Abane A, Munthali A, Awoke T, Mariwah S, Chamdimba E, Owusu SA, Robson E, Castelli M, Shkedy Z, Shawa N, Abel J, Kasim A. Informal mhealth at scale in Africa: Opportunities and challenges. WORLD DEVELOPMENT 2021; 140:105257. [PMID: 33814676 PMCID: PMC7903241 DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2020.105257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The extraordinary global growth of digital connectivity has generated optimism that mobile technologies can help overcome infrastructural barriers to development, with 'mobile health' (mhealth) being a key component of this. However, while 'formal' (top-down) mhealth programmes continue to face challenges of scalability and sustainability, we know relatively little about how health-workers are using their own mobile phones informally in their work. Using data from Ghana, Ethiopia and Malawi, we document the reach, nature and perceived impacts of community health-workers' (CHWs') 'informal mhealth' practices, and ask how equitably these are distributed. We implemented a mixed-methods study, combining surveys of CHWs across the three countries, using multi-stage proportional-to-size sampling (N = 2197 total), with qualitative research (interviews and focus groups with CHWs, clients and higher-level stake-holders). Survey data were weighted to produce nationally- or regionally-representative samples for multivariate analysis; comparative thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. Our findings confirm the limited reach of 'formal' compared with 'informal' mhealth: while only 15% of CHWs surveyed were using formal mhealth applications, over 97% reported regularly using a personal mobile phone for work-related purposes in a range of innovative ways. CHWs and clients expressed unequivocally enthusiastic views about the perceived impacts of this 'informal health' usage. However, they also identified very real practical challenges, financial burdens and other threats to personal wellbeing; these appear to be borne disproportionately by the lowest-paid cadre of health-workers, especially those serving rural areas. Unlike previous small-scale, qualitative studies, our work has shown that informal mhealth is already happening at scale, far outstripping its formal equivalent. Policy-makers need to engage seriously with this emergent health system, and to work closely with those on the ground to address sources of inequity, without undermining existing good practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Hampshire
- Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
- Corresponding author.
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19
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Scheelbeek PFD, Hamza YA, Schellenberg J, Hill Z. Improving the use of focus group discussions in low income settings. BMC Med Res Methodol 2020; 20:287. [PMID: 33256625 PMCID: PMC7706206 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-020-01168-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The quality of data obtained through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) is highly dependent on appropriate design and facilitation. In low-income settings steep power gradients between researcher and participants, as well as conversational norms, could reduce the ability of participants to voice personal opinions. Activity-oriented exercises have been suggested as a way overcoming these challenges, however little evidence exists - to date - on their use in low-income settings. We selected six exercises for use in Ethiopia and Nigeria and report our experiences. Methods The six exercises (picture sorting, associative pictures, picture ranking, decision trees, predictive story-telling and provocative statements) were used in 32 maternal and new-born care themed FGDs conducted in Amhara and Southern Nations Nationalities and People’s Regions (Ethiopia) and Gombe State (Nigeria). Six facilitators and two supervisors who used these exercises were interviewed about their experiences. FGD verbatim transcripts and interview notes were analysed to explore methodological effectiveness and respondents’ experience. All data were coded in NVIVO using a deductive coding frame. Results Facilitators and participants described the methods as ‘fun’ and ‘enjoyable’. The exercises yielded more in-depth and complete information than ‘normal’ FGDs, but facilitator’s probing skills and overall FGD group dynamics proved crucial in this success. Explaining and conducting the exercises increased FGD length. Data richness, participant reaction and understanding, and ease of facilitation varied by study site, exercise, and participant group. Overall, the exercises worked better in Nigeria than in Ethiopia. The provocative statement exercise was most difficult for participants to understand, the decision-tree most difficult to facilitate and the picture exercises most enjoyable. The story telling exercise took relatively little time, was well understood, yielded rich data and reduced social desirability bias. Discussion The majority of the exercises proved successful tools in yielding richer and less biased information from FGDs and were experienced as fun and engaging. Tailoring of the exercises, as well as thorough training and selection of the facilitators, were pivotal in this success. The difference in the two countries shows that adequate piloting and adaptation is crucial, and that some exercises may not be adaptable to all settings. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12874-020-01168-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline F D Scheelbeek
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | | | - Joanna Schellenberg
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Zelee Hill
- University College London, Institute for Global Health, London, UK
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20
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Melberg A, Teklemariam L, Moland KM, Aasen HS, Sisay MM. Juridification of maternal deaths in Ethiopia: a study of the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) system. Health Policy Plan 2020; 35:900-905. [PMID: 32594165 PMCID: PMC7553756 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czaa043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Juridification of maternal health care is on the rise globally, but little is known about its manifestations in resource constrained settings in sub-Saharan Africa. The Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) system is implemented in Ethiopia to record and review all maternal and perinatal deaths, but underreporting of deaths remains a major implementation challenge. Fear of blame and malpractice litigation among health workers are important factors in underreporting, suggestive of an increased juridification of birth care. By taking MPDSR implementation as an entry point, this article aims to explore the manifestations of juridification of birth care in Ethiopia. Based on multi-sited fieldwork involving interviews, document analysis and observations at different levels of the Ethiopian health system, we explore responses to maternal deaths at various levels of the health system. We found an increasing public notion of maternal deaths being caused by malpractice, and a tendency to perceive the juridical system as the only channel to claim accountability for maternal deaths. Conflicts over legal responsibility for deaths influenced birth care provision. Both health workers and health bureaucrats strived to balance conflicting concerns related to the MPDSR system: reporting all deaths vs revealing failures in service provision. This dilemma encouraged the development of strategies to avoid personalized accountability for deaths. In this context, increased juridification impacted both care and reporting practices. Our study demonstrates the need to create a system that secures legal protection of health professionals reporting maternal deaths as prescribed and provides the public with mechanisms to claim accountability and high-quality birth care services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Melberg
- Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Årstadveien 21, N-5007 Bergen, Norway
| | - Lidiya Teklemariam
- O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, Georgetown University Law Center, USA
| | - Karen Marie Moland
- Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Årstadveien 21, N-5007 Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Mitike Molla Sisay
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
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21
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Hill Z, Scheelbeek P, Hamza Y, Amare Y, Schellenberg J. Are We Using the Right Approach to Change Newborn Care Practices in the Community? Qualitative Evidence From Ethiopia and Northern Nigeria. GLOBAL HEALTH: SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020; 8:383-395. [PMID: 32709596 PMCID: PMC7541120 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-19-00410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In Ethiopia, high community-level exposure to consistent messages and the perceptions of community health workers and relationships with them drove newborn care behavior change. In Nigeria, exposure to messages was limited, community health workers were less trusted, and behavior change was reported less frequently. Changing behaviors is usually a core component of the role of community health workers (CHWs), but little is known about the mechanisms through which they change behavior. We collected qualitative data from 8 sites in Ethiopia and northern Nigeria where CHWs were active to understand how they change newborn care behaviors. In each country, we conducted 12 narrative interviews and 12–13 in-depth interviews with recent mothers and 4 focus group discussions each with mothers, fathers, grandmothers, and CHWs. We identified 2 key mechanisms of behavior change. The first was linked to the frequency and consistency of hearing messages that led to a perception that change had occurred in community-wide behaviors, collective beliefs, and social expectations. The second was linked to trust in the CHW, obligation, and hierarchy. We found little evidence that constructs that often inform the design of counseling approaches, such as knowledge of causality and perceived risks and benefits, were mechanisms of change.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yared Amare
- Consultancy for Social Development, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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22
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Kohrt BA, Carruth L. Syndemic effects in complex humanitarian emergencies: A framework for understanding political violence and improving multi-morbidity health outcomes. Soc Sci Med 2020; 295:113378. [PMID: 33051023 PMCID: PMC7501533 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A hallmark of complex humanitarian emergencies is the collective exposure, often over extended periods of time, to political violence in the forms of war, terrorism, political intimidation, repression, unlawful detention, and forced displacement. Populations in complex humanitarian emergencies have higher risks of multiple co-morbidities: mental disorders, infectious diseases, malnutrition, and chronic non-communicable diseases. However, there is wide variation in the health impacts both across and within humanitarian emergencies. Syndemic theory is an approach to conceptualizing disease and social determinants to understand differential patterns of multi-morbidity, elucidate underlying mechanisms, and better design interventions. Syndemic theory, if applied to complex humanitarian emergencies, has the potential to uncover origins of localized patterns of multi-morbidity resulting from political violence and historical inequities. In this paper, we present two case studies based on mixed-methods research to illustrate how syndemic models can be applied in complex humanitarian emergencies. First, in a Nepal case study, we explore different patterns of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression co-morbidity among female former child soldiers returning home after war. Despite comparable exposure to war-related traumas, girl soldiers in high-caste Hindu communities had 63% co-morbidity of PTSD and depression, whereas girl soldiers in communities with mixed castes and religions, had 8% PTSD prevalence, but no cases of PTSD and depression co-morbidity. In the second case study, we explore the high rates of type 2 diabetes during a spike in political violence and population displacement. Despite low rates of obesity and other common risk factors, Somalis in Ethiopia experienced rising cases of and poor outcomes from type-2 diabetes. Political violence shapes healthcare resources, diets, and potentially, this epidemiological anomaly. Based on these case studies we propose a humanitarian syndemic research agenda for observational and intervention studies, with the central focus being that public health efforts need to target violence prevention at family, community, national, and global levels. Violence is a key feature of syndemic interactions in many contexts. In complex humanitarian emergencies, political violence exacerbates multi-morbidity. A syndemic approach could integrate fragmented and siloed health responses in complex humanitarian emergencies. A syndemic approach demands mitigating the roots of political violence and resulting multi-morbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon A Kohrt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Global Health, Milken School of Public Health, George Washington University, USA.
| | - Lauren Carruth
- School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC, 20016, USA.
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Political connections and psychosocial wellbeing among Women's Development Army leaders in rural amhara, Ethiopia: Towards a holistic understanding of community health workers' socioeconomic status. Soc Sci Med 2020; 266:113373. [PMID: 33068871 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Little empirical research exists on the effects of health work on Community Health Workers' (CHWs') social relationships and status, yet these factors are important in understanding the broad social and behavioral drivers and impacts of CHW programs. This is particularly true for unpaid CHWs. Engaging with others as a CHW might help a worker to embody a valued role in society as a selfless, caring individual; or it might strengthen bonds with others and improve social networks and social capital. By combining qualitative, ethnographic, and survey data collected in rural Amhara, Ethiopia from 2013 to 2016, we evaluated the extent to which unpaid female workers in Ethiopia's Women's Development Army (WDA) were better able than their peers to achieve cultural consonance by building desired social connections or fulfilling locally salient models of virtuous womanhood. We conducted a cultural consensus survey (n = 74) and measured cultural consonance in a larger survey of adult women, including WDA leaders (n = 422). We also conducted participant observation and interviews with health officials, local health staff, and WDA leaders. In our study site, WDA leaders were more able than other women to fulfill the cultural ideal of having connections to various government officials. Yet these connections often did not lead to the benefits that WDA leaders hoped for. Also, in contrast to the findings of many other studies, achieving greater cultural consonance was not significantly associated with reduced psychological distress in this population. For women in this rural context, meanwhile, psychological distress is strongly associated with food and water insecurity, stressful life events, and social support. These findings point to the importance of social, economic and psychological support for rural women in Amhara, and specifically for unpaid CHWs.
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Tura AK, Fage SG, Ibrahim AM, Mohamed A, Ahmed R, Gure T, Zwart J, van den Akker T. Beyond No Blame: Practical Challenges of Conducting Maternal and Perinatal Death Reviews in Eastern Ethiopia. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020; 8:150-154. [PMID: 32461200 PMCID: PMC7326520 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-19-00366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Lack of a professional body to address patients’ complaints regarding quality of health care and absence of clear medicolegal guidance hamper maternal death reviews in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abera Kenay Tura
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Sagni Girma Fage
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Alexander Mohamed Ibrahim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Ahmed Mohamed
- Department of Paediatrics, Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Redwan Ahmed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Gure
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Joost Zwart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Deventer Ziekenhuis, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Athena Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Geloso V, Berdine G, Powell B. Making sense of dictatorships and health outcomes. BMJ Glob Health 2020; 5:bmjgh-2020-002542. [PMID: 32409326 PMCID: PMC7232398 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-002542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Geloso
- School of Management, Economics, and Mathematics, King's University College, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gilbert Berdine
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Benjamin Powell
- Free Market Institute and Rawls School of Business, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, USA
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Cash-Gibson L, Harris M, Guerra G, Benach J. A novel conceptual model and heuristic tool to strengthen understanding and capacities for health inequalities research. Health Res Policy Syst 2020; 18:42. [PMID: 32366322 PMCID: PMC7197115 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-020-00559-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite increasing evidence on health inequalities over the past decades, further efforts to strengthen capacities to produce research on this topic are still urgently needed to inform effective interventions aiming to address these inequalities. To strengthen these research capacities, an initial comprehensive understanding of the health inequalities research production process is vital. However, most existing research and models are focused on understanding the relationship between health inequalities research and policy, with less focus on the health inequalities research production process itself. Existing conceptual frameworks provide valuable, yet limited, advancements on this topic; for example, they lack the capacity to comprehensively explain the health (and more specifically the health inequalities) research production process at the local level, including the potential pathways, components and determinants as well as the dynamics that might be involved. This therefore reduces their ability to be empirically tested and to provide practical guidance on how to strengthen the health inequalities research process and research capacities in different settings. Several scholars have also highlighted the need for further understanding and guidance in this area to inform effective action. METHODS Through a critical review, we developed a novel conceptual model that integrates the social determinants of health and political economy perspectives to provide a comprehensive understanding of how health inequalities research and the related research capacities are likely to be produced (or inhibited) at local level. RESULTS Our model represents a global hypothesis on the fundamental processes involved, and can serve as a heuristic tool to guide local level assessments of the determinants, dynamics and relations that might be relevant to better understand the health inequalities research production process and the related research capacities. CONCLUSIONS This type of knowledge can assist researchers and decision-makers to identify any information gaps or barriers to be addressed, and establish new entry points to effectively strengthen these research capacities. This can lead to the production of a stronger evidence base, both locally and globally, which can be used to inform strategic efforts aimed at achieving health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucinda Cash-Gibson
- Research Group on Health Inequalities, Environment and Employment Conditions Knowledge Network (GREDS-EMCONET), Department of Political and Social Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Mercè Rodoreda 24 Building, Campus Ciutadella UPF, Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27, 08003 Barcelona, Catalonia Spain
- Johns Hopkins University - Pompeu Fabra University Public Policy Center, Barcelona, Catalonia Spain
| | - Matthew Harris
- The School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Germán Guerra
- National Institute of Public Health, Mexico, Av. Universidad No. 655 Colonia Santa Maria Ahuacatitlán, C.P, 62100 Cuernavaca, Morelos Mexico
| | - Joan Benach
- Research Group on Health Inequalities, Environment and Employment Conditions Knowledge Network (GREDS-EMCONET), Department of Political and Social Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Mercè Rodoreda 24 Building, Campus Ciutadella UPF, Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27, 08003 Barcelona, Catalonia Spain
- Johns Hopkins University - Pompeu Fabra University Public Policy Center, Barcelona, Catalonia Spain
- Transdisciplinary Research Group on Socioecological Transitions (GinTRANS2), Universidad Autónoma, Madrid, Spain
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Melberg A, Mirkuzie AH, Sisay TA, Sisay MM, Moland KM. 'Maternal deaths should simply be 0': politicization of maternal death reporting and review processes in Ethiopia. Health Policy Plan 2020; 34:492-498. [PMID: 31365076 PMCID: PMC6788214 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czz075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Maternal Death Surveillance and Response system (MDSR) was implemented in Ethiopia in 2013 to record and review maternal deaths. The overall aim of the system is to identify and address gaps in order to prevent future death but, to date, around 10% of the expected number of deaths are reported. This article examines practices and reasoning involved in maternal death reporting and review practices in Ethiopia, building on the concept of ‘practical norms’. The study is based on multi-sited fieldwork at different levels of the Ethiopian health system including interviews, document analysis and observations, and has documented the politicized nature of MDSR implementation. Death reporting and review are challenged by the fact that maternal mortality is a main indicator of health system performance. Health workers and bureaucrats strive to balance conflicting demands when implementing the MDSR system: to report all deaths; to deliver perceived success in maternal mortality reduction by reporting as few deaths as possible; and to avoid personalized accountability for deaths. Fear of personal and political accountability for maternal deaths strongly influences not only reporting practices but also the care given in the study sites. Health workers report maternal deaths in ways that minimize their number and deflect responsibility for adverse outcomes. They attribute deaths to community and infrastructural factors, which are often beyond their control. The practical norms of how health workers report deaths perpetuate a skewed way of seeing problems and solutions in maternal health. On the basis of our findings, we argue that closer attention to the broader political context is needed to understand the implementation of MDSR and other surveillance systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Melberg
- Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Årstadveien 21, N-5007 Bergen, Norway
| | - Alemnesh Hailemariam Mirkuzie
- National Data Management Center for Health, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Gulelle Arbegnoch Street, Gulele Sub City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfamichael Awoke Sisay
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Algeria Street, Arada Sub City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mitike Molla Sisay
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Algeria Street, Arada Sub City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Karen Marie Moland
- Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Årstadveien 21, N-5007 Bergen, Norway.,Centre for Intervention Science in Maternal and Child Health, University of Bergen, Årstadveien 21, N-5007 Bergen, Norway
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Abstract
This special issue of Global Public Health presents a collection of articles that analyse power and its mechanisms in health systems and health policy processes. Researchers have long noted that the influence of power is implicated throughout the global health field, yet theories and methods for examining power-its sources, workings, and effects-are rarely applied in health policy and systems research. By engaging with the social sciences and humanities, contributors to this collection aim to analytically sharpen and thematically broaden the study of power and politics in global health. Contributors analyse the exercise of power by actors typically considered powerful on the global stage as well as actors across the health system who may be powerful in national or local contexts. Additionally, the papers draw attention to actors, interest groups, and practices not usually viewed as politically salient in health policy and systems research in low- and middle-income countries. The papers not only analyse power but also identify ways to counteract it, such as by using human rights-based frameworks to investigate and challenge power asymmetries. Collectively, they show how researchers working on global health issues can theorise power and deepen political analysis of health policy and systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhika Gore
- a Department of Population Health , NYU School of Medicine , New York , USA
| | - Richard Parker
- b Institute for the Study of Collective Health (IESC) , Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil.,c Brazilian Interdisciplinary AIDS Association (ABIA) , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil.,d Department of Sociomedical Sciences , Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University , New York , USA
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Steege R, Waldman L, Datiko DG, Kea AZ, Taegtmeyer M, Theobald S. 'The phone is my boss and my helper' - A gender analysis of an mHealth intervention with Health Extension Workers in Southern Ethiopia. J Public Health (Oxf) 2019; 40:ii16-ii31. [PMID: 30551130 PMCID: PMC6294039 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdy199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is considerable optimism in mHealth’s potential to overcome health system deficiencies, yet gender inequalities can weaken attempts to scale-up mHealth initiatives. We report on the gendered experiences of an mHealth intervention, in Southern Ethiopia, realised by the all-female cadre of Health Extension Workers (HEWs). Methodology Following the introduction of the mHealth intervention, in-depth interviews (n = 19) and focus group discussions (n = 8) with HEWs, supervisors and community leaders were undertaken to understand whether technology acted as an empowering tool for HEWs. Data was analysed iteratively using thematic analysis informed by a socio-ecological model, then assessed against the World Health Organisation’s gender responsive assessment scale. Results HEWs reported experiencing: improved status after the intervention; respect from community members and were smartphone gatekeepers in their households. HEWs working alone at health posts felt smartphones provided additional support. Conversely, smartphones introduced new power dynamics between HEWs, impacting the distribution of labour. There were also negative cost implications for the HEWs, which warrant further exploration. Conclusion MHealth has the potential to improve community health service delivery and the experiences of HEWs who deliver it. The introduction of this technology requires exploration to ensure that new gender and power relations transform, rather than disadvantage, women. Keywords communities, e-health, gender
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalind Steege
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Linda Waldman
- Institute of Development studies, Library Road, Brighton BN1 9RE, UK
| | | | | | - Miriam Taegtmeyer
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Sally Theobald
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, L3 5QA, UK
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Hill Z, Amare Y, Scheelbeek P, Schellenberg J. 'People have started to deliver in the facility these days ': a qualitative exploration of factors affecting facility delivery in Ethiopia. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e025516. [PMID: 31196898 PMCID: PMC6576119 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-025516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand the recent rise in facility deliveries in Ethiopia. DESIGN A qualitative study. SETTING Four rural communities in two regions of Ethiopia. PARTICIPANTS 12 narrative, 12 in-depth interviews and four focus group discussions with recently delivered women; and four focus group discussions with each of grandmothers, fathers and community health workers. RESULTS We found that several interwoven factors led to the increase in facility deliveries, and that respondents reported that the importance of these factors varied over time. The initial catalysts were a saturation of messages around facility delivery, improved accessibility of facilities, the prohibition of traditional birth attendants, and elders having less influence on deciding the place of delivery. Once women started to deliver in facilities, the drivers of the behaviour changed as women had positive experiences. As more women began delivering in facilities, families shared positive experiences of the facilities, leading to others deciding to deliver in a facility. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the need to employ strategies that act at multiple levels, and that both push and pull families to health facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zelee Hill
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Yared Amare
- Consultancy for Social Development, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Closser S, Napier H, Maes K, Abesha R, Gebremariam H, Backe G, Fossett S, Tesfaye Y. Does volunteer community health work empower women? Evidence from Ethiopia’s Women’s Development Army. Health Policy Plan 2019; 34:298-306. [DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czz025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Of the millions of Community Health Workers (CHWs) serving their communities across the world, there are approximately twice as many female CHWs as there are male. Hiring women has in many cases become an ethical expectation, in part because working as a CHW is often seen as empowering the CHW herself to enact positive change in her community. This article draws on interviews, participant observation, document review and a survey carried out in rural Amhara, Ethiopia from 2013 to 2016 to explore discourses and experiences of empowerment among unpaid female CHWs in Ethiopia’s Women’s Development Army (WDA). This programme was designed to encourage women to leave the house and gain decision-making power vis-à-vis their husbands—and to use this power to achieve specific, state-mandated, domestically centred goals. Some women discovered new opportunities for mobility and self-actualization through this work, and some made positive contributions to the health system. At the same time, by design, women in the WDA had limited ability to exercise political power or gain authority within the structures that employed them, and they were taken away from tending to their individual work demands without compensation. The official rhetoric of the WDA—that women’s empowerment can happen by rearranging village-level social relations, without offering poor women opportunities like paid employment, job advancement or the ability to shape government policy—allowed the Ethiopian government and its donors to pursue ‘empowerment’ without investments in pay for lower-level health workers, or fundamental freedoms introduced into state-society relations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svea Closser
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Harriet Napier
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kenneth Maes
- Department of Anthropology, Oregon State University, 2250 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Roza Abesha
- Department of Sociology/Anthropology, Middlebury College, 201 Munroe Hall, Middlebury, VT, USA
| | - Hana Gebremariam
- Department of Sociology/Anthropology, Middlebury College, 201 Munroe Hall, Middlebury, VT, USA
| | - Grace Backe
- Department of Sociology/Anthropology, Middlebury College, 201 Munroe Hall, Middlebury, VT, USA
| | - Sarah Fossett
- Department of Sociology/Anthropology, Middlebury College, 201 Munroe Hall, Middlebury, VT, USA
| | - Yihenew Tesfaye
- Department of Anthropology, Oregon State University, 2250 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, USA
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Maes K, Closser S, Tesfaye Y, Abesha R. Psychosocial distress among unpaid community health workers in rural Ethiopia: Comparing leaders in Ethiopia's Women's Development Army to their peers. Soc Sci Med 2019; 230:138-146. [PMID: 31009880 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2019.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing critical social science literature on volunteering in health programs in non-western, low-income countries, yet few have mixed quantitative and qualitative methods to examine the psychological and social wellbeing of unpaid community health workers in such contexts. We address this issue with data from unpaid community health workers (CHWs) and other women who comprise Ethiopia's state-organized Women's Development Army. We draw on qualitative and cross-sectional survey data collected between 2013 and 2016 to test links between various aspects of psychosocial and economic wellbeing and volunteer status in a rural context. We surveyed 422 adult women in Amhara state, 73 of whom were unpaid CHWs in the "Army". We also conducted interviews and focus group discussions with health officials, salaried Health Extension Workers, volunteer CHWs, and other adult women. Analyses of our qualitative and quantitative datasets show that volunteer CHWs are actually worse off than their peers in various psychosocial and economic respects, and that CHW recruitment processes are the most likely explanation for this difference. Additionally, the unpaid CHW position adds work to already burdened shoulders, and makes women-especially unmarried women-vulnerable to negative gossip and high levels of psychological distress. To a limited extent, the volunteer CHW position also bolsters married women's subjective socioeconomic status and confidence in achieving future gains in status. By showing that unpaid CHWs do not necessarily enjoy psychosocial benefits, and may experience harm as a result of their work, these findings reinforce the recommendation that CHWs in contexts of poverty be paid and better supported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Maes
- Department of Anthropology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA.
| | - Svea Closser
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
| | - Yihenew Tesfaye
- Department of Anthropology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
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Assefa Y, Gelaw YA, Hill PS, Taye BW, Van Damme W. Community health extension program of Ethiopia, 2003-2018: successes and challenges toward universal coverage for primary healthcare services. Global Health 2019; 15:24. [PMID: 30914055 PMCID: PMC6434624 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-019-0470-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ethiopia has been implementing a community health extension program (HEP) since 2003. We aimed to assess the successes and challenges of the HEP over time, and develop a framework that may assist the implementation of the program toward universal primary healthcare services. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and synthesis of the literature on the HEP in Ethiopia between 2003 and 2018. Literature search was accomplished in PubMed, Embase and Google scholar databases. Literature search strategies were developed using medical subject headings (MeSH) and text words related to the aim of the review. We used a three-stage screening process to select the publications. Data extraction was conducted by three reviewers using pre-prepared data extraction form. We conducted an interpretive (not aggregative) synthesis of studies. FINDINGS The HEP enabled Ethiopia to achieve significant improvements in maternal and child health, communicable diseases, hygiene and sanitation, knowledge and health care seeking. The HEP has been a learning organization that adapts itself to community demands. The program is also dynamic enough to shift tasks between health centers and community. The community has been a key player in the successful implementation of the HEP. In spite of these successes, the program is currently facing challenges that remain to be addressed. These challenges are related to productivity and efficiency of health extension workers (HEWs); working and living conditions of HEWs; capacity of health posts; and, social determinants of health. These require a systemic approach that involves the wider health system, community, and sectors responsible for social determinants of health. We developed a framework that may assist in the implementation of the HEP. CONCLUSION The HEP has enabled Ethiopia to achieve significant improvements. However, several challenges remain to be addressed. The framework can be utilized to improve community health programs toward universal coverage for primary healthcare services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibeltal Assefa
- School of Public Health, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| | | | - Peter S Hill
- School of Public Health, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Wim Van Damme
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Scott K, George AS, Ved RR. Taking stock of 10 years of published research on the ASHA programme: examining India's national community health worker programme from a health systems perspective. Health Res Policy Syst 2019; 17:29. [PMID: 30909926 PMCID: PMC6434894 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-019-0427-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As India's accredited social health activist (ASHA) community health worker (CHW) programme enters its second decade, we take stock of the research undertaken and whether it examines the health systems interfaces required to sustain the programme at scale. METHODS We systematically searched three databases for articles on ASHAs published between 2005 and 2016. Articles that met the inclusion criteria underwent analysis using an inductive CHW-health systems interface framework. RESULTS A total of 122 academic articles were identified (56 quantitative, 29 mixed methods, 28 qualitative, and 9 commentary or synthesis); 44 articles reported on special interventions and 78 on the routine ASHA program. Findings on special interventions were overwhelmingly positive, with few negative or mixed results. In contrast, 55% of articles on the routine ASHA programme showed mixed findings and 23% negative, with few indicating overall positive findings, reflecting broader system constraints. Over half the articles had a health system perspective, including almost all those on general ASHA work, but only a third of those with a health condition focus. The most extensively researched health systems topics were ASHA performance, training and capacity-building, with very little research done on programme financing and reporting, ASHA grievance redressal or peer communication. Research tended to be descriptive, with fewer influence, explanatory or exploratory articles, and no predictive or emancipatory studies. Indian institutions and authors led and partnered on most of the research, wrote all the critical commentaries, and published more studies with negative results. CONCLUSION Published work on ASHAs highlights a range of small-scale innovations, but also showcases the challenges faced by a programme at massive scale, situated in the broader health system. As the programme continues to evolve, critical comparative research that constructively feeds back into programme reforms is needed, particularly related to governance, intersectoral linkages, ASHA solidarity, and community capacity to provide support and oversight.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Asha S. George
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Robert Sobukwe Road, Bellville, Cape Town, 7535 South Africa
| | - Rajani R. Ved
- National Health Systems Resource Centre, New Delhi, India
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Bergen N, Abebe L, Asfaw S, Kiros G, Kulkarni MA, Mamo A, Morankar S, Labonté R. Maternity waiting areas - serving all women? Barriers and enablers of an equity-oriented maternal health intervention in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia. Glob Public Health 2019; 14:1509-1523. [PMID: 30905270 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2019.1597142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
In Ethiopia, maternal waiting areas (MWAs) - residential areas near health facilities where women can stay while waiting to give birth - are community-based, equity-oriented interventions to improve maternal outcomes among rural populations. In this qualitative study we sought to explore the barriers and enablers that Health Extension Workers (HEWs) encounter when engaging with communities about MWAs. We conducted semi-structured interviews with HEWs across rural sites in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia. Drawing from an ecological model of social determinants of maternal and child health, we analysed data using thematic coding methods. HEWs reported a variety of factors that determined MWA use, including the number of children at home, previous childbirth experiences, community support networks, decision making practices within families, the availability and acceptability of health services, geographical access, and health beliefs. HEWs worked to increase the use of MWAs by engaging with husbands and communities, raising awareness in target groups of women, and managing community participation. Policies and practices that support enhanced training for HEWs, increased resources for communities, and greater opportunities for HEWs to liaise with decision makers at various levels of influence are possible ways forward to improve MWA use, specifically, and maternal and neonatal/child health outcomes more generally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Bergen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa , Ottawa , Canada
| | - Lakew Abebe
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University , Jimma , Ethiopia
| | - Shifera Asfaw
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University , Jimma , Ethiopia
| | - Getachew Kiros
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University , Jimma , Ethiopia
| | - Manisha A Kulkarni
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa , Ottawa , Canada
| | - Abebe Mamo
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University , Jimma , Ethiopia
| | - Sudhakar Morankar
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Jimma University , Jimma , Ethiopia
| | - Ronald Labonté
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa , Ottawa , Canada
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Bergen N, Mamo A, Asfaw S, Abebe L, Kurji J, Kiros G, Abera M, Bulcha Duguma G, Haji Bedru K, Kulkarni MA, Labonté R, Morankar S. Perceptions and experiences related to health and health inequality among rural communities in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia: a rapid qualitative assessment. Int J Equity Health 2018; 17:84. [PMID: 29914493 PMCID: PMC6006566 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-018-0798-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Safe Motherhood Research Project studies the implementation and scale-up of maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) initiatives in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia. This qualitative rapid assessment study was undertaken to explore community perceptions and experiences related to health, health inequality and other MNCH themes. METHODS We conducted 12 focus group discussions and 24 in-depth interviews with community stakeholder groups (female and male community members, Health Extension Workers, members of the Women Development Army and Male Development Army, and religious leaders) across six rural sites in Jimma Zone. Data were analyzed through thematic coding and the preparation of content summaries by theme. RESULTS Participants described being healthy as being disease free, being able to perform daily activities and being able to pursue broad aspirations. Health inequalities were viewed as community issues, primarily emanating from a lack of knowledge or social exclusion. Poverty was raised as a possible contributor to poor health, however, participants felt this could be overcome through community-level responses. Participants described formal and informal mechanisms for supporting the disadvantaged, which served as a type of safety net, providing information as well as emotional, financial and social support. CONCLUSIONS Understanding community perceptions of health and health inequality can serve as an evidence base for community-level initiatives, including MNCH promotion. The findings of this study enable the development of audience-centered MNCH promotion activities that closely align with community priorities and experiences. This research demonstrates the application of rapid qualitative assessment methods to explore the context for MNCH promotion activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Bergen
- University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, ON, K1G 5Z3, Canada.
| | - Abebe Mamo
- Jimma University, PO Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | | | - Lakew Abebe
- Jimma University, PO Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Jaameeta Kurji
- University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, ON, K1G 5Z3, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Manisha A Kulkarni
- University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, ON, K1G 5Z3, Canada
| | - Ronald Labonté
- University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, ON, K1G 5Z3, Canada
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Holcombe SJ. Medical society engagement in contentious policy reform: the Ethiopian Society for Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ESOG) and Ethiopia's 2005 reform of its Penal Code on abortion. Health Policy Plan 2018; 33:583-591. [PMID: 29538641 PMCID: PMC5894080 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czy019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Unsafe abortion is one of the three leading causes of maternal mortality in low-income countries; however, few countries have reformed their laws to permit safer, legal abortion, and professional medical associations have not tended to spearhead this type of reform. Support from a professional association typically carries more weight than does that from an individual medical professional. However, theory predicts and the empirical record largely reveals that medical associations shy from engagement in conflictual policymaking such as on abortion, except when professional autonomy or income is at stake. Using interviews with 10 obstetrician-gynaecologists and 44 other leaders familiar with Ethiopia's reproductive health policy context, as well as other primary and secondary sources, this research examines why, counter to theoretical expectations from the sociology of medical professions literature and experience elsewhere, the Ethiopian Society of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ESOG) actively supported reform of national law on abortion. ESOG leadership participation was motivated by both individual and ESOG's organizational commitments to reducing maternal mortality and also by professional training and work experience. Further, typical constraints on medical society involvement in policymaking were relaxed or removed, including those related to ESOG's organizational structure and history, and to political environment. Findings do not contradict theory positing medical society avoidance of socially conflictual health policymaking, but rather identify how the expected restrictions were less present in Ethiopia, facilitating medical society participation. Results can inform efforts to encourage medical society participation in policy reform to improve women's health elsewhere in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Jane Holcombe
- Bixby Center for Population, Health and Sustainability, University of California, 17 University Hall, Berkeley, CA 94720-7360 USA
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