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Tan CXY, Chua JS, Shorey S. Effectiveness of text message reminders on paediatric appointment adherence: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Pediatr 2024:10.1007/s00431-024-05769-z. [PMID: 39279016 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-024-05769-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 09/01/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
Attending health appointments is important for the paediatric population, as it allows for earlier detection of health issues and subsequent necessary treatments. It also ensures timely immunisations while also allowing patients or their parents to raise health concerns. Hence, it is crucial to take steps to ensure that such medical appointments are attended. To evaluate the effectiveness of text message reminders (TMRs) in improving paediatric patients' adherence to their appointments. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. The search spanned across eight online databases from their inception dates to January 2024. The random-effects model was utilised to conduct the meta-analysis, where risk ratio was used as the effect measure. Subgroup analyses were conducted for age, number of TMRs sent, and type of appointments attended. In total, 13 studies were included. Compared to standard care (involving non-text message reminders or no reminders), TMRs were significantly more effective in improving appointment attendance among the paediatric population. Significant subgroup differences were found in the type of appointments attended, where TMRs were more effective for medical appointments compared to vaccination appointments. No differences in adherence to appointments were found across age groups or the number of TMRs sent. Conclusion: Sending TMRs can be a potentially cost-effective way to improve the attendance rate of paediatric medical appointments, given the ease of implementation and the extensive mobile phone usage globally. Future studies should compare TMRs to other modes of automated reminders such as telephone messages or emails, to identify the most optimal method of delivery. Trial registration: PROSPERO (CRD42023464893).
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Affiliation(s)
- Charmaine Xing Yi Tan
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jing Shi Chua
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shefaly Shorey
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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Banihashem Rad SA, Esteves-Oliveira M, Kazemian A, Azami N, Khorshid M, Sohrabi A, Attaran Khorasani A, Campus G. Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Nudge Theory in Improving the Oral Self-Care of Schoolchildren with Refugee and Immigrant Backgrounds in Mashhad, Iran. Dent J (Basel) 2024; 12:228. [PMID: 39057015 PMCID: PMC11276547 DOI: 10.3390/dj12070228] [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: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Nudge theory proposes using subtle interventions to encourage individuals to make better decisions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Nudge theory in plaque control and assess caries experience among third-grade primary schoolchildren with refugee and immigrant backgrounds in Mashhad, Iran. Moreover, Afghan and Iranian schoolchildren were compared to assess differences in oral health outcomes. A quasi-experimental field trial was conducted in three public primary schools, comprising 309 participants approximately 9 years old. Interventions were randomly assigned to three schools: School I Messages based on Social Norms (MSN), School II Messages based on Fear of Negative Outcome (MFNO), and School III control group (C). MSN and MFNO received customized motivational video clips at baseline, while C only received Oral hygiene instruction (OHI). All participants received OHI, a brush, and toothpaste. Baseline plaque index (PI) and caries experience in primary and permanent dentition (dmft/DMFT) were recorded. PI was reassessed at two weeks, two months, and six months post-intervention. All data were subjected to statistical analysis. The mean PI decreased significantly in all three groups at the two-week follow-up (p < 0.01). The PI improvements declined over a six-month follow-up period in all groups, and the mean PI difference after six months compared to the pre-intervention was significant only in MSN and MFNO (p < 0.01), while C reverted almost to the pre-study level. Schoolchildren with at least one filled tooth or Iranian nationality showed a greater PI reduction (p < 0.01, p = 0.05). The overall mean ± SD dmft and DMFT were 4.24 ± 2.11 and 1.70 ± 1.24, respectively. Among all the examined participants, 32 (10.40%) individuals were caries-free. The mean dmft was statistically significantly higher in Afghan children than in Iranians (p = 0.01). MSN was more effective on PI reduction in the short term, while MFNO was more long-lasting. Using the Nudge theory via visual aids was more effective in motivating children to perform better oral self-care than solely traditional OHI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Ahmad Banihashem Rad
- Department of Restorative, Preventive and Pediatric Dentistry, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 7, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (S.A.B.R.); (M.E.-O.)
- Graduate School for Health Sciences, University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Marcella Esteves-Oliveira
- Department of Restorative, Preventive and Pediatric Dentistry, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 7, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (S.A.B.R.); (M.E.-O.)
- Department of Restorative Dentistry and Endodontology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany
- Department of Conservative Dentistry, Periodontology and Endodontology, University Centre of Dentistry, Oral Medicine and Maxillofacial Surgery (UZMK), University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ali Kazemian
- Department of Community Oral Health, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran;
| | - Negar Azami
- Department of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran; (N.A.); (M.K.); (A.S.); (A.A.K.)
| | - Mehrzad Khorshid
- Department of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran; (N.A.); (M.K.); (A.S.); (A.A.K.)
| | - Aylin Sohrabi
- Department of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran; (N.A.); (M.K.); (A.S.); (A.A.K.)
| | - Amir Attaran Khorasani
- Department of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran; (N.A.); (M.K.); (A.S.); (A.A.K.)
| | - Guglielmo Campus
- Department of Restorative, Preventive and Pediatric Dentistry, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 7, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (S.A.B.R.); (M.E.-O.)
- Department of Cariology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, SIMATS DEEMED University, Chennai 600077, India
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Currie GE, McLeod C, Waddington C, Snelling TL. SMS-based interventions for improving child and adolescent vaccine coverage and timeliness: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1753. [PMID: 38956527 PMCID: PMC11218178 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18900-4] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this review was to investigate the impact of short message service (SMS)-based interventions on childhood and adolescent vaccine coverage and timeliness. METHODS A pre-defined search strategy was used to identify all relevant publications up until July 2022 from electronic databases. Reports of randomised trials written in English and involving children and adolescents less than 18 years old were included. The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Thirty randomised trials were identified. Most trials were conducted in high-income countries. There was marked heterogeneity between studies. SMS-based interventions were associated with small to moderate improvements in vaccine coverage and timeliness compared to no SMS reminder. Reminders with embedded education or which were combined with monetary incentives performed better than simple reminders in some settings. CONCLUSION Some SMS-based interventions appear effective for improving child vaccine coverage and timeliness in some settings. Future studies should focus on identifying which features of SMS-based strategies, including the message content and timing, are determinants of effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Currie
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - C McLeod
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - C Waddington
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - T L Snelling
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia.
- Menzies School of Health Research and Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT, Australia.
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Knop MR, Nagashima-Hayashi M, Lin R, Saing CH, Ung M, Oy S, Yam ELY, Zahari M, Yi S. Impact of mHealth interventions on maternal, newborn, and child health from conception to 24 months postpartum in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review. BMC Med 2024; 22:196. [PMID: 38750486 PMCID: PMC11095039 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03417-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile health (mHealth) technologies have been harnessed in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to address the intricate challenges confronting maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH). This review aspires to scrutinize the effectiveness of mHealth interventions on MNCH outcomes during the pivotal first 1000 days of life, encompassing the period from conception through pregnancy, childbirth, and post-delivery, up to the age of 2 years. METHODS A comprehensive search was systematically conducted in May 2022 across databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health (CINAHL), Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Trip Pro, to unearth peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2022. The inclusion criteria consisted of (i) mHealth interventions directed at MNCH; (ii) study designs, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), RCT variations, quasi-experimental designs, controlled before-and-after studies, or interrupted time series studies); (iii) reports of outcomes pertinent to the first 1000 days concept; and (iv) inclusion of participants from LMICs. Each study was screened for quality in alignment with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and the Joanne Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools. The included articles were then analyzed and categorized into 12 mHealth functions and outcome domain categories (antenatal, delivery, and postnatal care), followed by forest plot comparisons of effect measures. RESULTS From the initial pool of 7119 articles, we included 131 in this review, comprising 56 RCTs, 38 cluster-RCTs, and 37 quasi-experimental studies. Notably, 62% of these articles exhibited a moderate or high risk of bias. Promisingly, mHealth strategies, such as dispatching text message reminders to women and equipping healthcare providers with digital planning and scheduling tools, exhibited the capacity to augment antenatal clinic attendance and enhance the punctuality of child immunization. However, findings regarding facility-based delivery, child immunization attendance, and infant feeding practices were inconclusive. CONCLUSIONS This review suggests that mHealth interventions can improve antenatal care attendance and child immunization timeliness in LMICs. However, their impact on facility-based delivery and infant feeding practices varies. Nevertheless, the potential of mHealth to enhance MNCH services in resource-limited settings is promising. More context-specific implementation studies with rigorous evaluations are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Ravn Knop
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Michiko Nagashima-Hayashi
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ruixi Lin
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chan Hang Saing
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mengieng Ung
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sreymom Oy
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Esabelle Lo Yan Yam
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Marina Zahari
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Siyan Yi
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
- Public Health Program, College of Education and Health Sciences, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, USA.
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Jain M, Duvendack M, Shisler S, Parsekar SS, Leon MDA. Effective interventions for improving routine childhood immunisation in low and middle-income countries: a systematic review of systematic reviews. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e074370. [PMID: 38365291 PMCID: PMC10875475 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-074370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An umbrella review providing a comprehensive synthesis of the interventions that are effective in providing routine immunisation outcomes for children in low and middle-income countries (L&MICs). DESIGN A systematic review of systematic reviews, or an umbrella review. DATA SOURCES We comprehensively searched 11 academic databases and 23 grey literature sources. The search was adopted from an evidence gap map on routine child immunisation sector in L&MICs, which was done on 5 May 2020. We updated the search in October 2021. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included systematic reviews assessing the effectiveness of any intervention on routine childhood immunisation outcomes in L&MICs. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Search results were screened by two reviewers independently applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were extracted by two researchers independently. The Specialist Unit for Review Evidence checklist was used to assess review quality. A mixed-methods synthesis was employed focusing on meta-analytical and narrative elements to accommodate both the quantitative and qualitative information available from the included reviews. RESULTS 62 systematic reviews are included in this umbrella review. We find caregiver-oriented interventions have large positive and statistically significant effects, especially those focusing on short-term sensitisation and education campaigns as well as written messages to caregivers. For health system-oriented interventions the evidence base is thin and derived from narrative synthesis suggesting positive effects for home visits, mixed effects for pay-for-performance schemes and inconclusive effects for contracting out services to non-governmental providers. For all other interventions under this category, the evidence is either limited or not available. For community-oriented interventions, a recent high-quality mixed-methods review suggests positive but small effects. Overall, the evidence base is highly heterogenous in terms of scope, intervention types and outcomes. CONCLUSION Interventions oriented towards caregivers and communities are effective in improving routine child immunisation outcomes. The evidence base on health system-oriented interventions is scant not allowing us to reach firm conclusions, except for home visits. Large evidence gaps exist and need to be addressed. For example, more high-quality evidence is needed for specific caregiver-oriented interventions (eg, monetary incentives) as well as health system-oriented (eg, health workers and data systems) and community-oriented interventions. We also need to better understand complementarity of different intervention types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Jain
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation, New Delhi, Delhi, India
| | | | - Shannon Shisler
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation, Washington, DC, USA
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Gorar ZA, Butt ZA. Impact of hepatitis B birth dose on immune response in Pakistani children: an open-label, non-inferiority randomized controlled trial, implications for achieving SDG target. Infect Dis (Lond) 2024; 56:1-10. [PMID: 37712585 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2023.2258208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite presence of hyperendemic areas, the national immunisation schedule in Pakistan does not include a hepatitis B birth dose, placing newborns at an additional risk of acquiring hepatitis B. This study aimed to assess the impact of adding hepatitis B birth dose in existing national vaccination schedule. METHODS An open label, randomised controlled non-inferiority trial enrolled 296 healthy near-term mothers to intervention and control groups. Newborns in the intervention group received a hepatitis B birth dose along with routine immunisation vaccines, while control group newborns received vaccinations under the national schedule. Seroprotection was measured and compared at birth and 8 weeks after administering the third dose of pentavalent vaccine. The risk ratio of seroprotection was computed and compared with the delta value set at 5%. RESULTS The study found that 95.8% of infants in the intervention group achieved seroprotection, which was significantly higher than the control group's 58.7%. The difference in risk ratio of seroprotection was 1.62 (CI95: 1.37-1.93), with the upper limit of the CI below the delta margin, confirming non-inferiority. The time interval between birth and the first hepatitis B immunisation shot was a predictor of seroprotection, with an odds ratio of 1.79 (CI95: 1.01-2.9). CONCLUSION Our study indicates that adding a hepatitis B birth dose to the immunisation schedule in Pakistan is non-inferior to the existing one. This can also contribute towards Pakistan's achievement of the SDG target of reducing hepatitis B surface antigen seroprevalence in children under 5 years of age. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04870021.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zahid Ahmad Butt
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
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Kazemian A, Hoseinzadeh M, Banihashem Rad SA, Jouya A, Tahani B. Nudging oral habits; application of behavioral economics in oral health promotion: a critical review. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1243246. [PMID: 38145077 PMCID: PMC10739307 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1243246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Oral health disorders significantly contribute to the global incidence of chronic diseases. Nudge interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing people's decision-making and self-management capacities in a cost-efficient manner. As a result, these interventions could be valuable tools for fostering improved oral care habits. This critical review explores potential behavioral nudges applicable to promoting oral health. Methods A thorough electronic literature search was conducted on Scopus, Embase, and PubMed databases for papers published post-2008. The search focused on empirical evidence concerning the direct and indirect application of Nudge theory in oral health enhancement. In addition, the investigation included the nudge intervention's role in managing common non-communicable disease risk factors (tobacco, alcohol, and sugar) and their use in other health sectors. Results and conclusion There is a dearth of studies on behavioral economics, particularly those involving reward and reminder techniques. However, various successful nudge interventions have been identified in other sectors that aim to improve health decisions. These include strategies encouraging healthier nutritional choices, tobacco and alcohol cessation, medication compliance, routine physical activity, and regular health check-ups. Such interventions can also have direct or indirect positive impacts on oral health. Implementing these interventions within an oral care framework could promote oral health due to similar underlying cognitive mechanisms. However, different types of nudge interventions have varying degrees of effectiveness. Furthermore, factors such as the method of delivery and the characteristics of the targeted population significantly influence the outcome of the intervention. Hence, it is imperative to conduct extensive studies in diverse socioeconomic settings to fully understand the potentials, limitations, and impacts of nudge interventions in promoting oral health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Kazemian
- Department of Community Oral Health, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Melika Hoseinzadeh
- Dental Research Center, Mashhad Dental School, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmad Banihashem Rad
- Department of Restorative, Preventive and Pediatric Dentistry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Health Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anahid Jouya
- Department of Community Oral Health, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Bahareh Tahani
- Department of Oral Public Health, Dental Research Center, School of Dentistry, Dental Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Price J, Gurley N, Gyapong M, Ansah EK, Awusabo-Asare K, Gyasi SF, Nkhoma P, Nyondo-Mipando AL, Okello G, Webster J, Desmond N, Hill J, Gordon WS. Acceptance of and Adherence to a Four-Dose RTS,S/AS01 Schedule: Findings from a Longitudinal Qualitative Evaluation Study for the Malaria Vaccine Implementation Programme. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1801. [PMID: 38140205 PMCID: PMC10747521 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121801] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The WHO recommended the use of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine (RTS,S) based on a pilot evaluation in routine use in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi. A longitudinal qualitative study was conducted to examine facilitators and barriers to uptake of a 4-dose RTS,S schedule. METHODS A cohort of 198 caregivers of RTS,S-eligible children from communities where RTS,S was provided through the pilot were interviewed three times over a ≈22-month, 4-dose schedule. The interviews examined caregiver perceptions and behaviors. Children's vaccination history was obtained to determine dose uptake. RESULTS 162 caregivers remained at round 3 (R3); vaccination history was available for 152/162 children. Despite early rumors/fears, the uptake of initial doses was high, driven by vaccine trust. Fears dissipated by R2, replaced with an enthusiasm for RTS,S as caregivers perceived its safety and less frequent and severe malaria. By R3, 98/152 children had received four doses; 34 three doses; 9 one or two doses; and 11 zero doses. The health system and information barriers were important across all under-dose cases. Fears about AEFIs/safety were important in zero-, one-, and two-dose cases. Competing life/livelihood demands and complacency were found in three-dose cases. Regardless of the doses received, caregivers had positive attitudes towards RTS,S by R3. CONCLUSIONS Findings from our study will help countries newly introducing the vaccine to anticipate and preempt reasons for delayed acceptance and missed RTS,S doses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nikki Gurley
- King County Department of Community and Human Services, 401 5th Ave #500, Seattle, WA 98104, USA;
| | - Margaret Gyapong
- Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana;
| | - Evelyn Korkor Ansah
- Center for Malaria Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana;
| | - Kofi Awusabo-Asare
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, New Administration Block, Cape Coast, Ghana;
| | - Samuel Fosu Gyasi
- Center for Research in Applied Biology, School of Sciences, University of Energy and Natural Resources, P.O. Box 214, Sunyani, Ghana;
| | - Pearson Nkhoma
- Goldsmiths, University of London, 8 Lewisham Way, New Cross, London SE14 6NW, UK;
| | - Alinane Linda Nyondo-Mipando
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Private Bag 360, Blantyre 3, Malawi;
| | - George Okello
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Geographic Medicine, Kisumu P.O. Box 1578, Kenya;
| | - Jayne Webster
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, UK;
| | - Nicola Desmond
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, University of Liverpool, Pembroke Pl, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK;
| | - Jenny Hill
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Pl, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK;
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Chuchu VM, Mutono N, Bichanga P, Kitala PM, Ksee D, Muturi M, Mwatondo A, Nasimiyu C, Akunga L, Amiche A, Hampson K, Thumbi SM. Effect of Phone Text Message Reminders on Compliance with Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis following Dog Bites in Rural Kenya. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1112. [PMID: 37376501 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11061112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The prompt administration of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is one of the key strategies for ending human deaths from rabies. A delay in seeking the first dose of rabies PEP, or failure to complete the recommended dosage, may result in clinical rabies and death. We assessed the efficacy of short message system (SMS) phone texts in improving the adherence to scheduled PEP doses among bite patients in rural eastern Kenya. We conducted a single-arm, before-after field trial that compared adherence among bite patients presenting at Makueni Referral Hospital between October and December 2018 (control) and between January and March 2019 (intervention). Data on their demographics, socio-economic status, circumstances surrounding the bite, and expenditures related to the bite were collected. A total of 186 bite patients were enrolled, with 82 (44%) in the intervention group, and 104 (56%) in the control group. The odds of PEP completion were three times (OR 3.37, 95% CI 1.28, 10.20) more likely among patients who received the SMS reminder, compared to the control. The intervention group had better compliance on the scheduled doses 2 to 5, with a mean deviation of 0.18 days compared to 0.79 days for the control group (p = 0.004). The main reasons for non-compliance included lack of funds (30%), and forgetfulness (23%) on days for follow-up treatment, among others. Nearly all (96%, n = 179) the bite patients incurred indirect transport costs, at an average of USD 4 (USD 0-45) per visit. This study suggests that the integration of SMS reminders into healthcare service delivery increases compliance with PEP, and may strengthen rabies control and elimination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronicah M Chuchu
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu 1578-40100, Kenya
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi 29053-00625, Kenya
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-7090, USA
| | - Nyamai Mutono
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-7090, USA
- Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi 19676-00202, Kenya
| | - Philet Bichanga
- Department of Health Services, Government of Makueni County, Makueni 95-90300, Kenya
| | - Philip M Kitala
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi 29053-00625, Kenya
| | - Daniel Ksee
- Department of Agriculture, Irrigation, Livestock and Fisheries Development, Government of Makueni County, Makueni 78-90300, Kenya
| | - Mathew Muturi
- Zoonotic Disease Unit, Joint One Health Office of the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Government of Kenya, Nairobi 20811-00202, Kenya
| | - Athman Mwatondo
- Zoonotic Disease Unit, Joint One Health Office of the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Government of Kenya, Nairobi 20811-00202, Kenya
| | - Carolyne Nasimiyu
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-7090, USA
| | | | | | - Katie Hampson
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, Graham Kerr Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Samuel M Thumbi
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu 1578-40100, Kenya
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-7090, USA
- Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, University of Nairobi, Nairobi 19676-00202, Kenya
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK
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Chaney SC, Mechael P. So Many Choices, How Do I Choose? Considerations for Selecting Digital Health Interventions to Support Immunization Confidence and Demand. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e47713. [PMID: 37223980 DOI: 10.2196/47713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Childhood vaccines are a safe, effective, and essential component of any comprehensive public health system. Successful and complete child immunization requires sensitivity and responsiveness to community needs and concerns while reducing barriers to access and providing respectful quality services. Community demand for immunization is influenced by multiple complex factors, involving attitudes, trust, and the dynamic relationship between caregivers and health workers. Digital health interventions have the potential to help reduce barriers and enhance opportunities for immunization access, uptake, and demand in low- and middle-income countries. But with limited evidence and many interventions to choose from, how do decision makers identify promising and appropriate tools? Early evidence and experiences with digital health interventions for immunization demand are presented in this viewpoint to help stakeholders make decisions, guide investment, coordinate efforts, as well as design and implement digital health interventions to support vaccine confidence and demand.
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11
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Grant J, Diawara H, Traore S, Koita F, Myers J, Sagara I, Chandramohan D, Dicko A, Greenwood B, Webster J. Delivery strategies for malaria vaccination in areas with seasonal malaria transmission. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e011838. [PMID: 37147016 PMCID: PMC10163455 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-011838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seasonal vaccination with the RTS,S/AS01E malaria vaccine given alongside seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) substantially reduces malaria in young children. The WHO has recommended the use of RTS,S/AS01E, including seasonal vaccination, in areas with seasonal malaria transmission. This study aimed to identify potential strategies to deliver RTS,S/AS01E, and assess the considerations and recommendations for delivery of seasonal malaria vaccination in Mali, a country with highly seasonal malaria. METHODS Potential delivery strategies for RTS,S/AS01E in areas with seasonal malaria were identified through a series of high level discussions with the RTS,S/AS01E plus SMC trial investigators, international and national immunisation and malaria experts, and through the development of a theory of change. These were explored through qualitative in-depth interviews with 108 participants, including national-level, regional-level and district-level malaria and immunisation programme managers, health workers, caregivers of children under 5 years of age, and community stakeholders. A national-level workshop was held to confirm the qualitative findings and work towards consensus on an appropriate strategy. RESULTS Four delivery strategies were identified: age-based vaccination delivered via the Essential Programme on Immunisation (EPI); seasonal vaccination via EPI mass vaccination campaigns (MVCs); a combination of age-based priming vaccination doses delivered via the EPI clinics and seasonal booster doses delivered via MVCs; and a combination of age-based priming vaccination doses and seasonal booster doses, all delivered via the EPI clinics, which was the preferred strategy for delivery of RTS,S/AS01E in Mali identified during the national workshop. Participants recommended that supportive interventions, including communications and mobilisation, would be needed for this strategy to achieve required coverage. CONCLUSIONS Four delivery strategies were identified for administration of RTS,S/AS01E alongside SMC in countries with seasonal malaria transmission. Components of these delivery strategies were defined as the vaccination schedule, and the delivery system(s) plus the supportive interventions needed for the strategies to be effective. Further implementation research and evaluation is needed to explore how, where, when and what effective coverage is achievable via these new strategies and their supportive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Grant
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Halimatou Diawara
- Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC), Universite des Sciences des Techniques et des Technologies de Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Seydou Traore
- Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC), Universite des Sciences des Techniques et des Technologies de Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Fatoumata Koita
- Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC), Universite des Sciences des Techniques et des Technologies de Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Jessica Myers
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Issaka Sagara
- Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC), Universite des Sciences des Techniques et des Technologies de Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Daniel Chandramohan
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alassane Dicko
- Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC), Universite des Sciences des Techniques et des Technologies de Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Brian Greenwood
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jayne Webster
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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12
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Kim SJ, Kwon SL, Lee JY, Oh J, Kwon GY. Why school is crucial to increase vaccination coverage for children: Evaluation of school vaccination check program in South Korea 2021-2022. Vaccine 2023; 41:3380-3386. [PMID: 37105889 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
The School Vaccination Check Program (SVCP) is a public health measure that aims to achieve high levels of National Immunization Program (NIP) vaccination coverage for children by checking the completion of the vaccination schedule for students when they enter elementary or middle school. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the SVCP was stopped in 2020 and 2021, and restarted in June-August 2022. In this study, we examined and quantified the relationship with SVCP and the vaccination uptake by comparing the vaccination coverage of 2021 and 2022. Based on the standard schedule, the vaccination records of DTaP5, IPV4, MMR2 and IJEV4 were evaluated for elementary school students. The Tdap6, IJEV5 and HPV1 were evaluated for the students from middle school. Using a difference-in-difference study design and national level big data, the study compared vaccination coverage as of August 2021 and 2022. The study found that the SVCP was effective in increasing vaccination coverage for targeted vaccinations such as DTaP5, IPV4, MMR2 and IJEV4 for elementary school students, and Tdap6, IJEV5 for middle school students. However, the SVCP did not show a statistically significant effect on increasing vaccination coverage on HPV1 for middle school students. School can play an important role to improve vaccination coverage. Therefore, close collaboration with health and education authority is crucial to accomplish successful vaccination program reducing vaccine preventable disease outbreaks in schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seon Ju Kim
- Division of Immunization, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghyun Lewis Kwon
- Division of Immunization, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Republic of Korea; KDI School of Public Policy and Management, Sejong, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae Young Lee
- Division of Immunization, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Juhwan Oh
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Geun-Yong Kwon
- Division of Immunization, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
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13
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Fletcher R, Symonds I, StGeorge J, Warland J, Stark M. Testing the acceptability of stillbirth awareness messages in an SMS program for fathers. Health Promot J Austr 2023; 34:149-155. [PMID: 36450663 PMCID: PMC10107767 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED To raise expectant fathers' awareness of risk factors for stillbirth. METHODS A set of brief text messages was developed addressing recognised risk factors for stillbirth: avoidance of maternal cigarette smoking, maternal going to sleep on side messaging, awareness of the importance of noticing and reporting changes in foetal movement and fathers' involvement in shared decision making for timing of birth. Eight messages were inserted into the SMS4dads pilot program being conducted by NSW Health. Feedback on the messages was requested. Participants rated the quality of the messages on a three-point Likert scale and provided comments. RESULTS Overall, 2528 messages were sent to 626 fathers' mobile phones, 45% of fathers replied with 666 ratings and 115 comments evaluating the texts. The quantitative ratings indicated substantial overall approval of the messages. Within the coding category "Evaluation of Message Content," three themes described fathers' reactions and feelings about the smoking, movement, side sleeping and birth timing messages: "important-good information," "not appropriate/anxiety provoking" and "not relevant-obvious." Three themes reflecting the attributes of the messages within the "Service Quality" category were "need more information," "complements public health" and "child voice fit." CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that the messages are an acceptable way to provide information and suggested actions addressing stillbirth risk factors to fathers-to-be. SO WHAT?: Fathers' awareness of the risk factors for stillbirth can assist mothers to take appropriate actions for a healthy birth. Information on risk factors can be provided to fathers via a father-focused text messaging service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Fletcher
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Ian Symonds
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jennifer StGeorge
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Jane Warland
- School of Nursing, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Michael Stark
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Shayo MJ, Shayo P, Haukila KF, Norman K, Burke C, Ngowi K, Goode AP, Allen KD, Wonanji VT, Mmbaga BT, Bettger JP. Expanding access to rehabilitation using mobile health to address musculoskeletal pain and disability. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2023; 3:982175. [PMID: 36684685 PMCID: PMC9853889 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2022.982175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders such as low back pain and osteoarthritis are a leading cause of disability and the leading contributor to the need for rehabilitation services globally. This need has surpassed the availability of trained clinicians; even in urban areas where services and providers are thought to be more abundant, access can be challenged by transportation options and financial costs associated with travel, care and lost time from work. However, continuing standard of fully in-person rehabilitation care for MSK-associated pain and disability may no longer be necessary. With increased ownership or access to even a basic mobile phone device, and evidence for remote management by trained clinicians, some individuals with MSK disorders may be able to continue their rehabilitation regimen predominantly from home after initial evaluation in primary care or an outpatient clinic. Methods This manuscript describes application of a framework we used to culturally and contextually adapt an evidence-based approach for leveraging digital health technology using a mobile phone (mHealth) to expand access to rehabilitation services for MSK-associated pain and disability. We then conducted a multi-level analysis of policies related to the adapted approach for rehabilitation service delivery to identify opportunities to support sustainability. Results Our study was conducted in Tanzania, a lower-middle income country with their first National Rehabilitation Strategic Plan released in 2021. Lessons learned can be applied even to countries with greater infrastructure or fewer barriers. The seven-step adaptation framework used can be applied in other regions to improve the likelihood of local mHealth adoption and implementation. Our practice and policy assessment for Tanzania can be applied in other regions and used collaboratively with government officials in support of building or implementing a national rehabilitation strategic plan. Conclusion The work described, lessons learned and components of the plan are generalizable globally and can improve access to rehabilitation services using mHealth to address the significant and increasing burden of disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew J. Shayo
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Pendo Shayo
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Kelvin F. Haukila
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Katherine Norman
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, United States
| | - Colleen Burke
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Health Services Research & Development Service, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Kennedy Ngowi
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Adam P. Goode
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, United States
| | - Kelli D. Allen
- Department of Veterans Affairs Health Services Research & Development Service, Durham, NC, United States
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Vivian Timothy Wonanji
- Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Blandina T. Mmbaga
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Janet Prvu Bettger
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, United States
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, TempleUniversity College of Public Health, Philadelphia, United States
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Lenel F, Priebe J, Satriawan E, Syamsulhakim E. Can mHealth campaigns improve CCT outcomes? Experimental evidence from sms-nudges in Indonesia. JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS 2022; 86:102687. [PMID: 36242788 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhealeco.2022.102687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Employing a clustered RCT this paper examines the short-term impact of a 12-month mHealth BCC campaign on health practices & outcomes among CCT beneficiaries in Indonesia. Our analysis reveals that the intervention led to substantial improvements in maternal health behavior (postnatal care, child vaccinations, hygiene practices) & outcomes (anemia rates). Adopting a heterogeneous treatment effect framework, we further show that improvements in maternal hygiene practices and anemia rates are closely linked to health knowledge gained by mothers through the sms campaign. In contrast, we provide suggestive evidence that improvements in other health indicators are more likely to be related to the reminder and nudge components of the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Priebe
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Bernhard Nocht Straße 74, 20359 Hamburg, Germany.
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Dathini H, Sharoni SKA, Robert KT. Parental Reminder Strategies and the Cost Implication for Improved Immunisation Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10101996. [PMID: 36292443 PMCID: PMC9602292 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10101996] [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] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Getting children vaccinated amidst prevailing barriers to immunisation has been challenging in both developed and developing countries. To address these problems, studies on parental reminder strategies were conducted to improve immunisation outcomes in children. These led to the development of different parental reminder interventions. This review systematically reviews different parental interventions and their cost implication for improved immunisations. Five online databases; Medline Complete, the Cumulative Index for Nursing and Allied Health Literature [CINAHL], Academic search premier, SPORTDiscus, and Health Source Nursing/Academic were searched using search terms. A total of 24 articles that met the inclusion criteria were included in this review. Studies that provided sufficient information were included for meta-analysis using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version three, while narrative synthesis was used for the other studies. Results indicate that a heterogeneous and low-quality certainty of evidence on parental voice calls (OR 4.752, 95% CI 1.846-12.231, p = 0.001) exists in improving immunisation coverage. Regarding immunisation timeliness, a high-quality certainty of evidence on Short Message Services (SMS)-delivered health education messages (OR 2.711 95% CI 1.387-5.299, p = 0.004) had more effect on timely immunisation uptake. The average cost of SMS-delivered parental reminder interventions for improved immunisation outcomes was USD 0.50. The study concludes that mobile technology is a promising, cost-effective strategy for improved immunisation outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamina Dathini
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Allied Health, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri 600104, Nigeria
| | - Siti Khuzaimah Ahmad Sharoni
- Centre for Nursing Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam 40450, Malaysia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +603-3258-4305
| | - Kever Teriyla Robert
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Allied Health, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri 600104, Nigeria
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Dhinagaran DA, Martinengo L, Ho MHR, Joty S, Kowatsch T, Atun R, Tudor Car L. Designing, Developing, Evaluating, and Implementing a Smartphone-Delivered, Rule-Based Conversational Agent (DISCOVER): Development of a Conceptual Framework. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 10:e38740. [PMID: 36194462 PMCID: PMC9579935 DOI: 10.2196/38740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conversational agents (CAs), also known as chatbots, are computer programs that simulate human conversations by using predetermined rule-based responses or artificial intelligence algorithms. They are increasingly used in health care, particularly via smartphones. There is, at present, no conceptual framework guiding the development of smartphone-based, rule-based CAs in health care. To fill this gap, we propose structured and tailored guidance for their design, development, evaluation, and implementation. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop a conceptual framework for the design, evaluation, and implementation of smartphone-delivered, rule-based, goal-oriented, and text-based CAs for health care. METHODS We followed the approach by Jabareen, which was based on the grounded theory method, to develop this conceptual framework. We performed 2 literature reviews focusing on health care CAs and conceptual frameworks for the development of mobile health interventions. We identified, named, categorized, integrated, and synthesized the information retrieved from the literature reviews to develop the conceptual framework. We then applied this framework by developing a CA and testing it in a feasibility study. RESULTS The Designing, Developing, Evaluating, and Implementing a Smartphone-Delivered, Rule-Based Conversational Agent (DISCOVER) conceptual framework includes 8 iterative steps grouped into 3 stages, as follows: design, comprising defining the goal, creating an identity, assembling the team, and selecting the delivery interface; development, including developing the content and building the conversation flow; and the evaluation and implementation of the CA. They were complemented by 2 cross-cutting considerations-user-centered design and privacy and security-that were relevant at all stages. This conceptual framework was successfully applied in the development of a CA to support lifestyle changes and prevent type 2 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS Drawing on published evidence, the DISCOVER conceptual framework provides a step-by-step guide for developing rule-based, smartphone-delivered CAs. Further evaluation of this framework in diverse health care areas and settings and for a variety of users is needed to demonstrate its validity. Future research should aim to explore the use of CAs to deliver health care interventions, including behavior change and potential privacy and safety concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Martinengo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Moon-Ho Ringo Ho
- School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shafiq Joty
- School of Computer Sciences and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tobias Kowatsch
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- School of Medicine, University of St Gallen, St Gallen, Switzerland
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Future Health Technologies Programme, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise, Singapore-ETH Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rifat Atun
- Department of Global Health & Population, Department of Health Policy & Management, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Health Systems Innovation Lab, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Lorainne Tudor Car
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Hahesy E, Cruz-Espinoza LM, Nyirenda G, Tadesse BT, Kim JH, Marks F, Rakotozandrindrainy R, Wetzker W, Haselbeck A. Madagascar's EPI vaccine programs: A systematic review uncovering the role of a child's sex and other barriers to vaccination. Front Public Health 2022; 10:995788. [PMID: 36187658 PMCID: PMC9523513 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.995788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Immunizations are one of the most effective tools a community can use to increase overall health and decrease the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases. Nevertheless, socioeconomic status, geographical location, education, and a child's sex have been identified as contributing to inequities in vaccine uptake in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Madagascar follows the World Health Organization's Extended Programme on Immunization (EPI) schedule, yet vaccine distribution remains highly inequitable throughout the country. This systematic review sought to understand the differences in EPI vaccine uptake between boys and girls in Madagascar. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted in August 2021 through MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, Global Index Medicus, and Google Scholar to identify articles reporting sex-disaggregated vaccination rates in Malagasy children. Gray literature was also searched for relevant data. All peer-reviewed articles reporting sex-disaggregated data on childhood immunizations in Madagascar were eligible for inclusion. Risk of bias was assessed using a tool designed for use in systematic reviews. Data extraction was conducted with a pre-defined data extraction tool. Sex-disaggregated data were synthesized to understand the impact of a child's sex on vaccination status. Findings The systematic search identified 585 articles of which a total of three studies were included in the final data synthesis. One additional publication was included from the gray literature search. Data from included articles were heterogeneous and, overall, indicated similar vaccination rates in boys and girls. Three of the four articles reported slightly higher vaccination rates in girls than in boys. A meta-analysis was not conducted due to the heterogeneity of included data. Six additional barriers to immunization were identified: socioeconomic status, mother's education, geographic location, supply chain issues, father's education, number of children in the household, and media access. Interpretation The systematic review revealed the scarcity of available sex-stratified immunization data for Malagasy children. The evidence available was limited and heterogeneous, preventing researchers from conclusively confirming or denying differences in vaccine uptake based on sex. The low vaccination rates and additional barriers identified here indicate a need for increased focus on addressing the specific obstacles to vaccination in Madagascar. A more comprehensive assessment of sex-disaggregated vaccination status of Malagasy children and its relationship with such additional obstacles is recommended. Further investigation of potential differences in vaccination status will allow for the effective implementation of strategies to expand vaccine coverage in Madagascar equitably. Funding and registration AH, BT, FM, GN, and RR are supported by a grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (grant number: OPP1205877). The review protocol is registered in the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021265000).
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Hahesy
- Bowdoin College, Brunswick, ME, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Florian Marks
- International Vaccine Institute, Seoul, South Korea
- University of Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology and Infectious Disease, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Adeyanju GC, Betsch C, Adamu AA, Gumbi KS, Head MG, Aplogan A, Tall H, Essoh TA. Examining enablers of vaccine hesitancy toward routine childhood and adolescent vaccination in Malawi. Glob Health Res Policy 2022; 7:28. [PMID: 35978401 PMCID: PMC9385415 DOI: 10.1186/s41256-022-00261-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The contribution of vaccination to global public health and community wellbeing has been described as one of the greatest success stories of modern medicine. However, 13.5 million children still miss at least one of their routine vaccinations, and this contributes to about 1.5 million deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases. One of the contributing factors has been associated with vaccine hesitancy. Vaccine hesitancy is the delay or refusal of vaccines despite their availability. The study explored factors from multiple perspectives that influence hesitancy among caregivers of children and adolescent girls eligible for childhood routine immunisation and the Human Papillomavirus vaccine in Malawi.
Methods The methodology used was qualitative such as key informant interviews and focus-group discussion. Information was obtained from caregivers, community and religious leaders, leaders of civil society groups, teachers in schools where Human Papillomavirus vaccine were piloted, healthcare workers, national and district-level officials of the expanded program on immunisation. There were 25 key informant interviews and two focus-group discussions, with 13 participants. The study was conducted between April to May 2020. The Interviews and discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using a thematic content approach. Results Most vaccine-hesitancy drivers for routine immunisation were also relevant for the HPV vaccine. The drivers included inadequate awareness of the vaccination schedule, rumours and conspiracy theories exacerbated by religious beliefs, low literacy levels of caregivers, distance and transport to the vaccination clinic, gender role and a disconnect between community healthcare workers and community leaders. Conclusions The study demonstrated that a network of factors determines vaccine hesitancy for childhood Routine Immunisation and Human Papillomavirus, and some of them are interrelated with one another. This has implications both for current levels of vaccine acceptance and the introduction of any new vaccine, such as those against Malaria, HIV/AIDS, HPV or COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019). Therefore, strategies developed to address vaccine hesitancy must be multi-component and wide-ranging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gbadebo Collins Adeyanju
- Media and Communication Science, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany. .,Center for Empirical Research in Economics and Behavioural Science (CEREB), University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany. .,Bernard Nocht Institute of Tropical Medicine (BNITM), Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Cornelia Betsch
- Media and Communication Science, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany.,Center for Empirical Research in Economics and Behavioural Science (CEREB), University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany.,Bernard Nocht Institute of Tropical Medicine (BNITM), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Abdu A Adamu
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa.,Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Michael G Head
- Clinical Informatics Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Aristide Aplogan
- Agence de Médecine Préventive, Regional Directorate for Africa, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Haoua Tall
- Agence de Médecine Préventive, Regional Directorate for Africa, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Tene-Alima Essoh
- Agence de Médecine Préventive, Regional Directorate for Africa, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
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Chandir S, Siddiqi DA, Abdullah S, Duflo E, Khan AJ, Glennerster R. Small mobile conditional cash transfers (mCCTs) of different amounts, schedules and design to improve routine childhood immunization coverage and timeliness of children aged 0-23 months in Pakistan: An open label multi-arm randomized controlled trial. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 50:101500. [PMID: 35784436 PMCID: PMC9241101 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cost-effective demand-side interventions are needed to increase childhood immunization. Multiple studies find tying income support programs (≥USD 50 per year) to immunization raises coverage. Research on maximizing impact from small mobile-based conditional cash transfers (mCCTs) (≤USD 15 per fully immunized child) delivered in lower-income settings remains sparse. METHODS Participants in Karachi, Pakistan, were individually randomized into a seven arm, factorial open label study with five mCCT arms, one reminder (SMS) only arm, and one control arm. The mCCT arms varied by amount (high ∼USD 15 per fully immunized child versus low ∼USD 5 per fully immunized child), schedule (flat versus rising payments over the schedule), design (certain versus lottery payments), and payment method (airtime or mobile money). Children were enrolled at BCG, pentavalent-1 (penta-1) or pentavalent-2 (penta-2) vaccination and followed until at least 18 months of age. A serosurvey in 15% sub-sample validated reported study coverage. The full immunization coverage (FIC) at 12 months (primary outcome) was analyzed using logit regression. ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03355989), 3ie registry (58f6ee7725fc1), and AEA RCT Registry (AEARCTR-0001953). FINDINGS Between November 6, 2017, and October 10, 2018, a total of 11,197 caregiver-child pairs were enrolled, with 1598-1600 caregiver-child pairs per arm. FIC at 12 months was statistically significantly higher for any mCCT versus SMS (OR:1.18, 95% CI: 1.05-1.33; p = 0.005). Within the mCCT arms, FIC was statistically significantly higher for high versus low amount (OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.04-1.29; p = 0.007), certain versus lottery payment (OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.17-1.45; p < 0.001) and airtime versus mobile money (OR: 1.17, 95% CI:1.01-1.36; p = 0.043). There was no statistically significant difference between a flat and increasing schedule (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.93-1.15; p = 0.550). SMS had a marginally statistically significant impact on FIC versus control (OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.00-1.35; p = 0.046). Findings were similar for up-to-date coverage of penta-3, measles-1 and measles-2 at 18 months. INTERPRETATION Small mCCTs (USD 0.8-2.4 per immunization visit) can increase FIC at 12 months and up-to-date coverage at 18 months at USD 23 per additional fully immunized child, in resource-constrained settings like Pakistan. Design details (certainty, schedule and delivery method of mCCTs) matter as much as the size of payments. FUNDING Global Innovation Fund, GiveWell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhash Chandir
- IRD Global, 583 Orchard Road, #06-01 Forum, Singapore, 238884
- Corresponding author at: IRD Global; 583 Orchard Road, #06-01 Forum, Singapore 238884.
| | | | - Sara Abdullah
- IRD Pakistan, 4th Floor Woodcraft Building, Korangi Creek, Karachi, 75190, Pakistan
| | - Esther Duflo
- MIT Department of Economics, room 544 Morris and Sophie Chang Building, 50 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, MA02142
| | | | - Rachel Glennerster
- MIT Department of Economics, room 544 Morris and Sophie Chang Building, 50 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, MA02142
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Mutebi M, Dehar N, Nogueira LM, Shi K, Yabroff KR, Gyawali B. Cancer Groundshot: Building a Robust Cancer Control Platform in Addition To Launching the Cancer Moonshot. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2022; 42:1-16. [PMID: 35561297 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_359521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cancer Groundshot is a philosophy that calls for prioritization of strategies in global cancer control. The underlying principle of Cancer Groundshot is that one must ensure access to interventions that are already proven to work before focusing on the development of new interventions. In this article, we discuss the philosophy of Cancer Groundshot as it pertains to priorities in cancer care and research in low- and middle-income countries and the utility of technology in addressing global cancer disparities; we also address disparities seen in high-income countries. The oncology community needs to realign our priorities and focus on improving access to high-value cancer control strategies, rather than allocating resources primarily to the development of technologies that provide only marginal gains at a high cost. There are several "low-hanging fruit" actions that will improve access to quality cancer care in low- and middle-income countries and in high-income countries. Worldwide, cancer morbidity and mortality can be averted by implementing highly effective, low-cost interventions that are already known to work, rather than investing in the development of resource-intensive interventions to which most patients will not have access (i.e., we can use Cancer Groundshot to first save more lives before we focus on the "moonshots").
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Mutebi
- Breast Surgical Oncology, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Navdeep Dehar
- Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leticia M Nogueira
- Department of Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA
| | - Kewei Shi
- Department of Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA
| | - K Robin Yabroff
- Department of Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA
| | - Bishal Gyawali
- Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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22
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Eze P, Agu SA, Agu UJ, Acharya Y. Acceptability of mobile-phone reminders for routine childhood vaccination appointments in Nigeria - a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:1276. [PMID: 34836531 PMCID: PMC8627092 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-07296-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile-phone reminders have gained traction among policymakers as a way to improve childhood vaccination coverage and timeliness. However, there is limited evidence on the acceptability of mobile-phone reminders among patients and caregivers. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the ownership of mobile-phone device and the willingness to receive mobile-phone reminders among mothers/caregivers utilizing routine childhood immunization services in Nigeria. METHOD MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, CNKI, AJOL (African Journal Online), and Web of Science were systematically searched for studies on the acceptability of mobile-phone reminders for routine immunization appointments among mothers/caregivers in Nigeria. Studies were assessed for methodological quality using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale and JBI critical appraisal checklists. Meta-analysis was conducted using random-effects model to generate pooled estimates (proportion) of mothers who owned at least one mobile phone and proportion of mothers willing to receive mobile-phone reminders. RESULTS Sixteen studies (13 cross-sectional and three interventional) involving a total of 9923 mothers across 15 states and the Federal Capital Territory Abuja met inclusion criteria. Pooled estimates showed that the proportion of mothers who owned at least one mobile phone was 96.4% (95% CI = 94.1-98.2%; I2 = 96.3%) while the proportion of mothers willing to receive mobile-phone reminders was 86.0% (95% CI = 79.8-91.3%, I2 = 98.4%). Most mothers preferred to receive text message reminders at least 24 h before the routine immunization appointment day, and in the morning hours. Approximately 52.8% of the mothers preferred to receive reminders in English, the country's official language. CONCLUSION Current evidence suggests a high acceptability for mobile-phone reminder interventions to improve routine childhood immunization coverage and timeliness. Further studies, however, are needed to better understand unique regional preferences and assess the operational costs, long-term effects, and risks of this intervention. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW PROTOCOL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021234183.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Eze
- Department of Health Policy and Administration, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 USA
| | - Sergius Alex Agu
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Ujunwa Justina Agu
- Department of Paediatrics, Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Yubraj Acharya
- Department of Health Policy and Administration, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 USA
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