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Toniolo J, Ngoungou EB, Preux PM, Beloni P. Role and knowledge of nurses in the management of non-communicable diseases in Africa: A scoping review. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297165. [PMID: 38635822 PMCID: PMC11025970 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 31.4 million people in low- and middle-income countries die from chronic diseases annually, particularly in Africa. To address this, strategies such as task-shifting from doctors to nurses have been proposed and have been endorsed by the World Health Organization as a potential solution; however, no comprehensive review exists describing the extent of nurse-led chronic disease management in Africa. AIMS This study aimed to provide a thorough description of the current roles of nurses in managing chronic diseases in Africa, identify their levels of knowledge, the challenges, and gaps they encounter in this endeavor. METHODS We performed a scoping review following the key points of the Cochrane Handbook, and two researchers independently realized each step. Searches were conducted using five databases: MEDLINE, PyscINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Embase, between October 2021 and April 2023. A descriptive analysis of the included studies was conducted, and the quality of the studies was assessed using the Downs and Black Scale. RESULTS Our scoping review included 111 studies from 20 African countries, with South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana being the most represented. Findings from the included studies revealed varying levels of knowledge. Nurses were found to be actively involved in managing common chronic diseases from diagnosis to treatment. Facilitating factors included comprehensive training, close supervision by physicians, utilization of decision trees, and mentorship. However, several barriers were identified, such as a shortage of nurses, lack of essential materials, and inadequate initial training. CONCLUSION There is significant potential for nurses to enhance the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic diseases in Africa. Achieving this requires a combination of rigorous training and effective supervision, supported by robust policies. To address varying levels of knowledge, tailored training programs should be devised. Further research is warranted to establish the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions on population health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Toniolo
- Inserm U1094, IRD UMR270, Univ. Limoges, CHU Limoges, EpiMaCT ‐ Epidemiology of Chronic Diseases in Tropical Zone, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, OmegaHealth, Limoges, France
- Département d’Epidémiologie Biostatistiques et Informatique Médicale (DEBIM)/ Unité de Recherche en Epidémiologie des Maladies Chroniques et Santé Environnement (UREMCSE), Faculté de Médecine, Université des Sciences de la Santé, Owendo, Gabon
- Département Universitaire de Sciences Infirmières, Faculté de Médecine et Pharmacie, Université de Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Edgard Brice Ngoungou
- Inserm U1094, IRD UMR270, Univ. Limoges, CHU Limoges, EpiMaCT ‐ Epidemiology of Chronic Diseases in Tropical Zone, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, OmegaHealth, Limoges, France
- Département d’Epidémiologie Biostatistiques et Informatique Médicale (DEBIM)/ Unité de Recherche en Epidémiologie des Maladies Chroniques et Santé Environnement (UREMCSE), Faculté de Médecine, Université des Sciences de la Santé, Owendo, Gabon
- Centre d’Epidémiologie, de Biostatistique, et de Méthodologie de la Recherche-Gabon (CEBIMER-Gabon), Institut Supérieur de Biologie Médicale (ISBM), Université des Sciences de la Santé, Owendo, Gabon
| | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- Inserm U1094, IRD UMR270, Univ. Limoges, CHU Limoges, EpiMaCT ‐ Epidemiology of Chronic Diseases in Tropical Zone, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, OmegaHealth, Limoges, France
| | - Pascale Beloni
- Inserm U1094, IRD UMR270, Univ. Limoges, CHU Limoges, EpiMaCT ‐ Epidemiology of Chronic Diseases in Tropical Zone, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, OmegaHealth, Limoges, France
- Département Universitaire de Sciences Infirmières, Faculté de Médecine et Pharmacie, Université de Limoges, Limoges, France
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Murudi-Manganye NS, Makhado L, Sehularo LA. A Conceptual Model to Strengthen Integrated Management of HIV and NCDs among NIMART-Trained Nurses in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Clin Pract 2023; 13:410-421. [PMID: 36961062 PMCID: PMC10037621 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract13020037] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Integrated management of human immune deficiency virus (HIV) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in primary health care facilities remains a challenge. Despite research that has been conducted in South Africa, it is evident that in Limpopo Province there are slits in the implementation thereof. There is a need to develop a conceptual model to guide in strengthening the clinical competence of nurse-initiated management of antiretroviral therapy (NIMART)-trained nurses to implement the integrated management of HIV and NCDs to improve clinical outcomes of patients with the dual burden of diseases in Limpopo Province, South Africa. This study aimed to develop a conceptual model to strengthen the implementation of integrated management of HIV and NCDs amongst NIMART nurses to improve clinical outcomes of patients with the dual burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases in Limpopo Province, South Africa. An explanatory, sequential, mixed-methods research design was followed. Data were collected from patient records and the skills audit of 25 Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities and from 28 NIMART trained nurses. Donabedian's structure process outcome model and Miller's pyramid of clinical competence provided a foundation in the development of the conceptual model. The study revealed a need to develop a conceptual model to strengthen the implementation of integrated HIV and NCDs implementation in PHC, as evidenced by differences in the management of HIV and NCDs. Conclusion: The study findings were conceptualised to describe and develop a model needed to strengthen the implementation of integrated management of HIV and NCDs amongst NIMART nurses working in PHC facilities. The study was limited to Limpopo Province; the model must be implemented in conjunction with the available frameworks to achieve better clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lufuno Makhado
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
| | - Leepile Alfred Sehularo
- School of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa
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Ruderman T, Ferrari G, Valeta F, Boti M, Kumwenda K, Park PH, Ngoga G, Ndarama E, Connolly E, Bukhman G, Adler A. Implementation of self-monitoring of blood glucose for patients with insulin-dependent diabetes at a rural non-communicable disease clinic in Neno, Malawi. S Afr Med J 2023; 113:84-90. [PMID: 36757071 DOI: 10.7196/samj.2023.v113i2.16643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is a widely accepted standard of practice for management of insulin-dependentdiabetes, yet is largely unavailable in rural sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This prospective cohort study is the first known report ofimplementation of SMBG in a rural, low-income country setting. OBJECTIVES To evaluate adherence and change in clinical outcomes with SMBG implementation at two rural hospitals in Neno, Malawi. METHODS Forty-eight patients with type 1 and insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes were trained to use glucometers and logbooks. Participantsmonitored preprandial glucose daily at rotating times and overnight glucose once a week. Healthcare providers were trained to evaluateglucose trends, and adjusted insulin regimens based on results. Adherence was measured as the frequency with which patients checked anddocumented blood glucose at prescribed times, while clinical changes were measured by change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) over a6-month period. RESULTS Participants brought their glucometers and logbooks to the clinic 95 - 100% of the time. Adherence with measuring glucose valuesand recording them in logbooks eight times a week was high (mean (standard deviation) 69.4% (15.7) and 69.0% (16.6), respectively). MeanHbA1c decreased from 9.0% (75 mmol/mol) at enrolment to 7.8% (62 mmol/mol) at 6 months (mean difference 1.2% (95% confidenceinterval (CI) 0.6 - 2.0; p=0.0005). The difference was greater for type 1 diabetes (1.6%; 95% CI 0.6 - 2.7; p=0.0031) than for type 2 diabetes(0.9%; 95% CI 0.1 - 1.9; p=0.0630). There was no documented increase in hypoglycaemic events, and no hospitalisations or deaths occurred. CONCLUSION SMBG is feasible for patients with insulin-dependent diabetes in a rural SSA population, and may be associated with improvedHbA1c levels. Despite common misconceptions, all patients, regardless of education level, can benefit from SMBG. Further research onlong-term retention of SMBG activities and the benefits of increasing frequency of monitoring is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - G Ferrari
- NCD Synergies project, Partners in Health, Boston, Mass., USA; Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass., USA.
| | - F Valeta
- Partners in Health, Neno, Malawi.
| | - M Boti
- Partners in Health, Neno, Malawi.
| | | | - P H Park
- NCD Synergies project, Partners in Health, Boston, Mass., USA; Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass., USA; Program in Global Noncommunicable Disease and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass., USA.
| | - G Ngoga
- NCD Synergies project, Partners in Health, Boston, Mass., USA; Noncommunicable Disease Program, Partners in Health, Rwanda; Non-Communicable Diseases Division, Rwanda Biomedical Center, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - E Ndarama
- Ministry of Health and Populations, Neno, Malawi.
| | - E Connolly
- Partners in Health, Neno, Malawi; Division of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Ohio, USA; Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Ohio, USA.
| | - G Bukhman
- NCD Synergies project, Partners in Health, Boston, Mass., USA; ivision of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass., USA; Program in Global Noncommunicable Disease and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass., USA.
| | - A Adler
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass., USA.
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Bahizi S, Mugeni R, Banhart D, Mukankuranga C, Makiriro G, Kirk C, Lotfy N, Flinkenflogel M, Cubaka VK. Glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes in a low resource setting in Rwanda: a prospective cohort study. Pan Afr Med J 2022; 43:74. [PMID: 36590994 PMCID: PMC9789783 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2022.43.74.35639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction diabetes is a leading cause of death, disability, and high healthcare costs, especially among patients with poor glycemic control. Providing decentralized diabetes care to patients in low-income countries remains a major challenge. We aimed to assess hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) level of patients enrolled in primary-level non-communicable disease clinics of Rwamagana, Rwanda, and identify predictors associated with a) change in HbA1c level over a 6-month period or b) achieving HbA1c <7%. We also explored whether living in a community with a home-based care practitioner was associated with HbA1c-related outcomes. Methods we conducted structured interviews and HbA1c testing among patients with type 2 diabetes at baseline and after six months. Multivariable linear regression and multivariable logistic regression were used. Results hundred and thirty (130) participants enrolled at baseline, and 123 patients remained in the study after six months. At baseline, 26% of patients had HbA1c <7%. After 6-months, 37% of patients had HbA1c <7%. Factors correlated with the greatest improvements in HbA1c were having HbA1c >9% at baseline, while factors associated with having HbA1c <7% after six months included older age and having HbA1c <7% at baseline. We did not find significant associations between home-based care practitioners and improvement in HbA1c level or achieving HbA1c <7. Conclusion the number of patients with well-controlled glycemia improved over time during this study but was still low overall. Care provided by home-based care practitioners was not associated with six-month HbA1c outcomes. Enhanced care is needed to achieve glycemia control in primary healthcare settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadallah Bahizi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda,,Rwamagana Provincial Hospital, Rwanda Ministry of Health, Kigali, Rwanda,,Corresponding author: Sadallah Bahizi, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - Regine Mugeni
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda,,Rwamagana Provincial Hospital, Rwanda Ministry of Health, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Dale Banhart
- Partners in Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda,,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Gabriel Makiriro
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda,,Rwamagana Provincial Hospital, Rwanda Ministry of Health, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Nesma Lotfy
- High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Maaike Flinkenflogel
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda,,KIT Royal Tropical Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Vincent Kalumire Cubaka
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda,,Partners in Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
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Niyonsenga SP, Park PH, Ngoga G, Ntaganda E, Kateera F, Gupta N, Rwagasore E, Rwunganira S, Munyarugo A, Mutumbira C, Dusabayezu S, Eagan A, Boudreaux C, Noble C, Muhimpundu MA, Ndayisaba FG, Nsanzimana S, Bukhman G, Uwinkindi F. Implementation outcomes of national decentralization of integrated outpatient services for severe non-communicable diseases to district hospitals in Rwanda. Trop Med Int Health 2021; 26:953-961. [PMID: 33892521 PMCID: PMC8453822 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Effective coverage of non-communicable disease (NCD) care in sub-Saharan Africa remains low, with the majority of services still largely restricted to central referral centres. Between 2015 and 2017, the Rwandan Ministry of Health implemented a strategy to decentralise outpatient care for severe chronic NCDs, including type 1 diabetes, heart failure and severe hypertension, to rural first-level hospitals. This study describes the facility-level implementation outcomes of this strategy. METHODS In 2014, the Ministry of Health trained two nurses in each of the country's 42 first-level hospitals to implement and deliver nurse-led, integrated, outpatient NCD clinics, which focused on severe NCDs. Post-intervention evaluation occurred via repeated cross-sectional surveys, informal interviews and routinely collected clinical data over two rounds of visits in 2015 and 2017. Implementation outcomes included fidelity, feasibility and penetration. RESULTS By 2017, all NCD clinics were staffed by at least one NCD-trained nurse. Among the approximately 27 000 nationally enrolled patients, hypertension was the most common diagnosis (70%), followed by type 2 diabetes (19%), chronic respiratory disease (5%), type 1 diabetes (4%) and heart failure (2%). With the exception of warfarin and beta-blockers, national essential medicines were available at more than 70% of facilities. Clinicians adhered to clinical protocols at approximately 70% agreement with evaluators. CONCLUSION The government of Rwanda was able to scale a nurse-led outpatient NCD programme to all first-level hospitals with good fidelity, feasibility and penetration as to expand access to care for severe NCDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul H. Park
- Partners In HealthBostonMAUSA
- Division of Global Health EquityBrigham and Women’s HospitalBostonMAUSA
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineProgram in Global Noncommunicable Diseases and Social ChangeHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Gedeon Ngoga
- Partners In HealthBostonMAUSA
- Inshuti Mu BuzimaRwinkwavuRwanda
| | | | | | - Neil Gupta
- Partners In HealthBostonMAUSA
- Division of Global Health EquityBrigham and Women’s HospitalBostonMAUSA
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineProgram in Global Noncommunicable Diseases and Social ChangeHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Edson Rwagasore
- Rwanda Biomedical CenterRwanda Ministry of HealthKigaliRwanda
| | | | | | - Cadet Mutumbira
- Rwanda Biomedical CenterRwanda Ministry of HealthKigaliRwanda
| | | | - Arielle Eagan
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineProgram in Global Noncommunicable Diseases and Social ChangeHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Chantelle Boudreaux
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineProgram in Global Noncommunicable Diseases and Social ChangeHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Christopher Noble
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineProgram in Global Noncommunicable Diseases and Social ChangeHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | | | | | | | - Gene Bukhman
- Partners In HealthBostonMAUSA
- Division of Global Health EquityBrigham and Women’s HospitalBostonMAUSA
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineProgram in Global Noncommunicable Diseases and Social ChangeHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Division of Cardiovascular MedicineBrigham and Women’s HospitalBostonMAUSA
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Franco CM, Lima JG, Giovanella L. Primary healthcare in rural areas: access, organization, and health workforce in an integrative literature review. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2021; 37:e00310520. [PMID: 34259752 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00310520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary healthcare is essential for dealing with the iniquities marking rural and remote territories. The concept of rurality is somewhat imprecise, and rural health policies in Brazil are insufficient. A review of the international literature can foster better understanding of the strategies developed in central rural health issues. The article's objective was to identify and analyze the challenges in access, organization of healthcare, and health workforce in primary care in rural areas. An integrative literature review was performed to search for scientific articles published from 2000 to 2019 in the Cochrane and MEDLINE databases and specific rural health journals. The search yielded 69 articles, categorized as addressing access, organization of healthcare, or health workforce. The findings' main themes were analyzed. Articles classified as access presented the following central themes: geographic aspects, patients' needs to travel for care, and access to hospital and specialized services. Articles on organization of healthcare dealt with structure and inputs, functioning of health services, and community-based management. Health workforce featured healthcare workers' profiles and roles and factors for their attraction/retention. Crosscutting issues in strengthening access, organization of healthcare, and health workforce in rural areas were community action, outreach/visiting models, communication/information technologies, access to care, and professional training/development. The review provides a comprehensive understanding of primary care in rural health to promote equity for rural populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassiano Mendes Franco
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.,Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sergio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
| | - Juliana Gagno Lima
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sergio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.,Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal do Oeste do Pará, Santarém, Brasil
| | - Lígia Giovanella
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sergio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
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Patterson J, Worku B, Jones D, Clary A, Ramaswamy R, Bose C. Ethiopian Pediatric Society Quality Improvement Initiative: a pragmatic approach to facility-based quality improvement in low-resource settings. BMJ Open Qual 2021; 10:bmjoq-2020-000927. [PMID: 33436379 PMCID: PMC7805350 DOI: 10.1136/bmjoq-2020-000927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To describe critical features of the Ethiopian Pediatric Society (EPS) Quality Improvement (QI) Initiative and to present formative research on mentor models. Setting General and referral hospitals in the Addis Ababa area of Ethiopia. Participants Eighteen hospitals selected for proximity to the EPS headquarters, prior participation in a recent newborn care training cascade and minimal experience with QI. Interventions Education in QI in a 2-hour workshop setting followed by implementation of a facility-based QI project with the support of virtual mentorship or in-person mentorship. Primary and secondary outcome measures Primary outcome—QI progress, measured using an adapted Institute for Healthcare Improvement Scale; secondary outcome—contextual factors affecting QI success as measured by the Model for Understanding Success in Quality. Results The dose and nature of mentoring encounters differed based on a virtual versus in-person mentoring approach. All QI teams conducted at least one large-scale change. Education of staff was the most common change implemented in both groups. We did not identify contextual factors that predicted greater QI progress. Conclusions The EPS QI Initiative demonstrates that education in QI paired with external mentorship can support implementation of QI in low-resource settings. This pragmatic approach to facility-based QI may be a scalable strategy for improving newborn care and outcomes. Further research is needed on the most appropriate instruments for measuring contextual factors in low/middle-income country settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn Patterson
- Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Bogale Worku
- School of Medicine, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Denise Jones
- Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alecia Clary
- Health Policy and Management, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rohit Ramaswamy
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, and the Public Health Leadership Program, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Carl Bose
- Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Availability, Costs and Stock-Outs of Essential NCD Drugs in Three Rural Rwandan Districts. Ann Glob Health 2020; 86:123. [PMID: 33024709 PMCID: PMC7518082 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.2729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: To reduce the non-communicable diseases (NCDs) burden, the World Health Organization has set a target to reach 80% availability of the affordable essential medicines required to treat NCDs by 2025. Objectives: This study described the availability, costs, and stock-outs of essential NCD drugs in three rural Rwandan districts. Methods: We retrospectively assessed 54 NCD drugs listed for district hospitals or health centers in the Rwanda national essential medicines list. Data were collected from three district hospitals and 17 health centers that host NCD clinics. We extracted data on drug availability, quantity dispensed, costs, stock-outs, and the replenishing supplier for these drugs between January 1 and December 31, 2017. Results: Overall, 71% of essential medicines for health centers and 78% of essential medicines for district hospitals were available at facilities. Only 15% of health centers experienced a stock-out of beclomethasone, while 77% experienced at least one stock-out of amlodipine and metformin. The median length of stock-out ranged from nine to 72 days, and 78% of the stock-outs across all health centers were replenished by a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) partner. Except for enoxaparin and metformin, all district hospitals experienced at least one stock-out of each drug. The median length of stock-out ranged from 3.5 to 228 days, and 82% of the stock-outs across all district hospitals were replenished by the Rwandan Ministry of Health (RMOH). The least expensive drug was digoxin ($0.02, Interquartile range (IQR): 0.01, 0.10), while the most expensive was beclomethasone ($9.35, IQR: 3.00, 13.20). Conclusions: This study shows the viability of drug-supported NCD care in rural settings of sub-Saharan Africa. Stock-outs are a challenge; our study emphasizes the importance of the MOH/NGO partnerships in this context. Medicine costs are also challenging, though, in these districts, drugs are more affordable through community-based health insurance, government, and NGO partner subsidies.
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Hoover J, Koon AD, Rosser EN, Rao KD. Mentoring the working nurse: a scoping review. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2020; 18:52. [PMID: 32727573 PMCID: PMC7388510 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-020-00491-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mentoring programs for nurses already in the health workforce are growing in importance. Yet, the settings, goals, scale, and key features of these programs are not widely known. OBJECTIVE To identify and synthesize research on in-service nurse mentoring programs. METHODS We reviewed nurse mentoring research from six databases. Studies either referred explicitly to in-service nurse mentoring programs, were reviews of such programs, or concerned nurse training/education in which mentoring was an essential component. RESULTS We included 69 articles from 11 countries, published from 1995 to 2019. Most articles were from high-income countries (n = 46) and in rural areas (n = 22). Programs were developed to strengthen clinical care (particularly maternal and neonatal care), promote evidence-based practice, promote retention, support new graduate nurses, and develop nurse leaders. Of the articles with sufficient data, they typically described small programs implemented in one facility (n = 23), with up to ten mentors (n = 13), with less than 50 mentees (n = 25), meeting at least once a month (n = 27), and lasting at least a year (n = 24). While over half of the studies (n = 36) described programs focused almost exclusively on clinical skills acquisition, many (n = 33) specified non-clinical professional development activities. Reflective practice featured to a varying extent in many articles (n = 29). Very few (n = 6) explicitly identified the theoretical basis of their programs. CONCLUSIONS Although the literature about in-service nurse mentoring comes mostly from small programs in high-income countries, the largest nurse mentoring programs in the world are in low- and middle-income countries. Much can be learned from studying these programs in greater detail. Future research should analyze key features of programs to make models of mentoring more transparent and translatable. If carefully designed and flexibly implemented, in-service nurse mentoring represents an exciting avenue for enhancing the role of nurses and midwives in people-centered health system strengthening. The contents in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, the U.S. Agency for International Development or the U.S. Government.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerilyn Hoover
- Credence Management Solutions, LLC, the Global Health Technical Professionals, USAID, 8609 Westwood Center Drive, Suite 300, Vienna, VA 22192 USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Adam D. Koon
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Erica N. Rosser
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Krishna D. Rao
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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Ng'ang'a L, Ngoga G, Dusabeyezu S, Hedt-Gauthier BL, Ngamije P, Habiyaremye M, Harerimana E, Ndayisaba G, Rusangwa C, Niyonsenga SP, Bavuma CM, Bukhman G, Adler AJ, Kateera F, Park PH. Implementation of blood glucose self-monitoring among insulin-dependent patients with type 2 diabetes in three rural districts in Rwanda: 6 months open randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e036202. [PMID: 32718924 PMCID: PMC7389513 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-036202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Most patients diagnosed with diabetes in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) present with poorly controlled blood glucose, which is associated with increased risks of complications and greater financial burden on both the patients and health systems. Insulin-dependent patients with diabetes in SSA lack appropriate home-based monitoring technology to inform themselves and clinicians of the daily fluctuations in blood glucose. Without sufficient home-based data, insulin adjustments are not data driven and adopting individual behavioural change for glucose control in SSA does not have a systematic path towards improvement. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study explores the feasibility and impact of implementing self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) in patients with type 2 diabetes in rural Rwandan districts. This is an open randomised controlled trial comprising of two arms: (1) Intervention group-participants will receive a glucose metre, blood test strips, logbook, waste management box and training on how to conduct SMBG in additional to usual care and (2) Control group-participants will receive usual care, comprising of clinical consultations and routine monthly follow-up. We will conduct qualitative interviews at enrolment and at the end of the study to assess knowledge of diabetes. At the end of the study period, we will interview clinicians and participants to assess the perceived usefulness, facilitators and barriers of SMBG. The primary outcomes are change in haemoglobin A1c, fidelity to SMBG protocol by patients, appropriateness and adverse effects resulting from SMBG. Secondary outcomes include reliability and acceptability of SMBG and change in the quality of life of the participants. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the Rwanda National Ethics Committee (Kigali, Rwanda No.102/RNEC/2018). We will disseminate the findings of this study through presentations within our study settings, scientific conferences and publication in a peer-reviewed journal. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER PACTR201905538846394; pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loise Ng'ang'a
- Research, Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health-Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | - Gedeon Ngoga
- Non-Communicable Diseases Division, Rwanda Biomedical Center, Kigali, Rwanda
- NCD Synergies, Partners in Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Symaque Dusabeyezu
- Research, Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health-Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | | | - Patient Ngamije
- Kirehe District Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | - Gilles Ndayisaba
- Non-Communicable Diseases Division, Rwanda Biomedical Center, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Christian Rusangwa
- Research, Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health-Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | | | - Charlotte M Bavuma
- Internal Medicine, University of Rwanda College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Gene Bukhman
- NCD Synergies, Partners in Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alma J Adler
- Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Fredrick Kateera
- Research, Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health-Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | - Paul H Park
- NCD Synergies, Partners in Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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11
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Frieden M, Zamba B, Mukumbi N, Mafaune PT, Makumbe B, Irungu E, Moneti V, Isaakidis P, Garone D, Prasai M. Setting up a nurse-led model of care for management of hypertension and diabetes mellitus in a high HIV prevalence context in rural Zimbabwe: a descriptive study. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:486. [PMID: 32487095 PMCID: PMC7268639 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05351-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the light of the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) on health systems in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, context-adapted, cost-effective service delivery models are now required as a matter of urgency. We describe the experience of setting up and organising a nurse-led Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and Hypertension (HTN) model of care in rural Zimbabwe, a low-income country with unique socio-economic challenges and a dual disease burden of HIV and NCDs. Methods Mirroring the HIV experience, we designed a conceptual framework with 9 key enablers: decentralization of services, integration of care, simplification of management guidelines, mentoring and task-sharing, provision of affordable medicines, quality assured laboratory support, patient empowerment, a dedicated monitoring and evaluation system, and a robust referral system. We selected 9 primary health care clinics (PHC) and two hospitals in Chipinge district and integrated DM and HTN either into the general out-patient department, pre-existing HIV clinics, or an integrated chronic care clinic (ICCC). We provided structured intensive mentoring for staff, using simplified protocols, and disease-specific education for patients. Free medication with differentiated periodic refills and regular monitoring with point of care (POC) glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) were provided. Results Nurses in 7 PHC facilities and one hospital developed sufficient knowledge and skills to diagnose, initiate treatment and monitor DM and HTN patients, and 3094 patients were registered in the programme (188 with DM only, 2473 with HTN only, 433 with both DM and HTN). Major lessons learned from our experience include: the value of POC devices in the management of diabetes; the pressure on services of the added caseload, exacerbated by the availability of free medications in supported health facilities; and the importance of leadership in the successful implementation of care in health facilities. Conclusion Our experience demonstrates a model for nurse-led decentralized integrated DM and HTN care in a high HIV prevalence rural, low-income context. Developing a context-adapted efficient model of care is a dynamic process. We present our lessons learned with the intention of sharing experience which may be of value to other public health programme managers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marthe Frieden
- Médecins Sans Frontières, 7 Bougainvillea close, Palmerstone, Mutare, Zimbabwe.
| | | | - Nisbert Mukumbi
- Médecins Sans Frontières, 7 Bougainvillea close, Palmerstone, Mutare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Brian Makumbe
- Ministry of Health and Child Care, Manicaland, Zimbabwe
| | - Elizabeth Irungu
- Médecins Sans Frontières, 7 Bougainvillea close, Palmerstone, Mutare, Zimbabwe
| | - Virginia Moneti
- Médecins Sans Frontières, 7 Bougainvillea close, Palmerstone, Mutare, Zimbabwe
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12
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Smith SL, Franke MF, Rusangwa C, Mukasakindi H, Nyirandagijimana B, Bienvenu R, Uwimana E, Uwamaliya C, Ndikubwimana JS, Dorcas S, Mpunga T, Misago CN, Iyamuremye JD, Dusabeyezu JD, Mohand AA, Atwood S, Osrow RA, Aldis R, Daimyo S, Rose A, Coleman S, Manzi A, Kayiteshonga Y, Raviola GJ. Outcomes of a primary care mental health implementation program in rural Rwanda: A quasi-experimental implementation-effectiveness study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0228854. [PMID: 32084663 PMCID: PMC7035003 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0228854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To address the know-do gap in the integration of mental health care into primary care in resource-limited settings, a multi-faceted implementation program initially designed to integrate HIV/AIDS care into primary care was adapted for severe mental disorders and epilepsy in Burera District, Rwanda. The Mentoring and Enhanced Supervision at Health Centers (MESH MH) program supported primary care-delivered mental health service delivery scale-up from 6 to 19 government-run health centers over two years. This quasi-experimental study assessed implementation reach, fidelity, and clinical outcomes at health centers supported by MESH MH during the scale up period. METHODS MESH MH consisted of four strategies to ensure the delivery of the priority care packages at health centers: training; supervision and mentorship; audit and feedback; and systems-based quality improvement (QI). Implementation reach (service use) across the 19 health centers supported by MESH MH during the two year scale-up period was described using routine service data. Implementation fidelity was measured at four select health centers by comparing total clinical supervisory visits and checklists to target goals, and by tracking clinical observation checklist item completion rates over a nine month period. A prospective before and after evaluation measured clinical outcomes in consecutive adults presenting to four select health centers over a nine month period. Primary outcome assessments at baseline, 2 and 6 months included symptoms and functioning, measured by the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Scale (WHO-DAS Brief), respectively. Secondary outcome assessments included engagement in income generating work and caregiver burden using a quantitative scale adapted to context. RESULTS A total of 2239 mental health service users completed 15,744 visits during the scale up period. MESH MH facilitated 70% and 76% of supervisory visit and clinical checklist utilization target goals, respectively. Checklist item completion rates significantly improved overall, and for three of five checklist item subgroups examined. 121 of 146 consecutive service users completed outcome measurements six months after entry into care. Scores improved significantly over six months on both the GHQ-12, with median score improving from 26 to 10 (mean within-person change 12.5 [95% CI: 10.9-14.0] p< 0.0001), and the WHO-DAS Brief, with median score improving from 26.5 to 7 (mean within-person change 16.9 [95% CI: 14.9-18.8] p< 0.0001). Over the same period, the percentage of surveyed service users reporting an inability to work decreased significantly (51% to 6% (p < 0.001)), and the proportion of households reporting that a caregiver had left income-generating work decreased significantly (41% to 4% (p < 0.001)). CONCLUSION MESH MH was associated with high service use, improvements in mental health care delivery by primary care nurses, and significant improvements in clinical symptoms and functional disability of service users receiving care at health centers supported by the program. Multifaceted implementation programs such as MESH MH can reduce the evidence to practice gap for mental health care delivery by nonspecialists in resource-limited settings. The primary limitation of this study is the lack of a control condition, consistent with the implementation science approach of the study. STUDY REGISTRATION ISRCTN #37231.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L. Smith
- Partners In Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Molly F. Franke
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sifa Dorcas
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - C. Nancy Misago
- Mental Health Division, Rwanda Biomedical Center, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | - Achour A. Mohand
- Mental Health Division, Rwanda Biomedical Center, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Sidney Atwood
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | | | - Rajen Aldis
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Alexandra Rose
- Partners In Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Sarah Coleman
- Partners In Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Anatole Manzi
- Partners In Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Giuseppe J. Raviola
- Partners In Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
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13
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Ngoga G, Park PH, Borg R, Bukhman G, Ali E, Munyaneza F, Tapela N, Rusingiza E, Edwards JK, Hedt-Gauthier B. Outcomes of decentralizing hypertension care from district hospitals to health centers in Rwanda, 2013-2014. Public Health Action 2019; 9:142-147. [PMID: 32042605 DOI: 10.5588/pha.19.0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Setting Three district hospitals (DHs) and seven health centers (HCs) in rural Rwanda. Objective To describe follow-up and treatment outcomes in stage 1 and 2 hypertension patients receiving care at HCs closer to home in comparison to patients receiving care at DHs further from home. Design A retrospective descriptive cohort study using routinely collected data involving adult patients aged ⩾18 years in care at chronic non-communicable disease clinics and receiving treatment for hypertension at DH and HC between 1 January 2013 and 30 June 2014. Results Of 162 patients included in the analysis, 36.4% were from HCs. Patients at DHs travelled significantly further to receive care (10.4 km vs. 2.9 km for HCs, P < 0.01). Odds of being retained were significantly lower among DH patients when not adjusting for distance (OR 0.11, P = 0.01). The retention effect was consistent but no longer significant when adjusting for distance (OR 0.18, P = 0.10). For those retained, there was no significant difference in achieving blood pressure targets between the DHs and HCs. Conclusion By removing the distance barrier, decentralizing hypertension management to HCs may improve long-term patient retention and could provide similar hypertension outcomes as DHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Ngoga
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - P H Park
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda.,Department of Medicine, Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - R Borg
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - G Bukhman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Partners In Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - E Ali
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Operational Centre Brussels, Operational Research Unit (LuxOR), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - F Munyaneza
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - N Tapela
- Department of Medicine, Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - E Rusingiza
- Ministry of Health, Kigali, Rwanda.,School of Medicine and Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - J K Edwards
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Operational Centre Brussels, Operational Research Unit (LuxOR), Luxembourg, Luxembourg.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - B Hedt-Gauthier
- Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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14
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Eberly LA, Rusangwa C, Ng'ang'a L, Neal CC, Mukundiyukuri JP, Mpanusingo E, Mungunga JC, Habineza H, Anderson T, Ngoga G, Dusabeyezu S, Kwan G, Bavuma C, Rusingiza E, Mutabazi F, Mucumbitsi J, Gahamanyi C, Mutumbira C, Park PH, Mpunga T, Bukhman G. Cost of integrated chronic care for severe non-communicable diseases at district hospitals in rural Rwanda. BMJ Glob Health 2019; 4:e001449. [PMID: 31321086 PMCID: PMC6597643 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2019-001449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Integrated clinical strategies to address non-communicable disease (NCDs) in sub-Saharan Africa have largely been directed to prevention and treatment of common conditions at primary health centres. This study examines the cost of organising integrated nurse-driven, physician-supervised chronic care for more severe NCDs at an outpatient specialty clinic associated with a district hospital in rural Rwanda. Conditions addressed included type 1 and type 2 diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, heart failure and rheumatic heart disease. Methods A retrospective costing analysis was conducted from the facility perspective using data from administrative sources and the electronic medical record systems of Butaro District Hospital in rural Rwanda. We determined initial start-up and annual operating financial cost of the Butaro district advanced NCD clinic for the fiscal year 2013–2014. Per-patient annual cost by disease category was determined. Results A total of US$47 976 in fixed start-up costs was necessary to establish a new advanced NCD clinic serving a population of approximately 300 000 people (US$0.16 per capita). The additional annual operating cost for this clinic was US$68 975 (US$0.23 per capita) to manage a 632-patient cohort and provide training, supervision and mentorship to primary health centres. Labour comprised 54% of total cost, followed by medications at 17%. Diabetes mellitus had the highest annual cost per patient (US$151), followed by heart failure (US$104), driven primarily by medication therapy and laboratory testing. Conclusions This is the first study to evaluate the costs of integrated, decentralised chronic care for some severe NCDs in rural sub-Saharan Africa. The findings show that these services may be affordable to governments even in the most constrained health systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Anne Eberly
- Department of Medicine, Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Loise Ng'ang'a
- Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health - Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | - Claire C Neal
- Organizational Transformational Initiatives, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Egide Mpanusingo
- Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health - Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | | | - Hamissy Habineza
- Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health - Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | - Todd Anderson
- Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health - Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | - Gedeon Ngoga
- Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health - Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | | | - Gene Kwan
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Program in Global NCDs and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Charlotte Bavuma
- Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health - Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda.,Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology Unit, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Emmanual Rusingiza
- Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health - Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda.,Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiology Unit, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Francis Mutabazi
- Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health - Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | | | | | - Cadet Mutumbira
- Inshuti Mu Buzima, Partners In Health - Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | - Paul H Park
- Partners In Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Program in Global NCDs and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Gene Bukhman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Partners In Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Program in Global NCDs and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Park PH, Pastakia SD. Access to Hemoglobin A1c in Rural Africa: A Difficult Reality with Severe Consequences. J Diabetes Res 2018; 2018:6093595. [PMID: 29682580 PMCID: PMC5846364 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6093595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 12/25/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) continues to have the highest diabetes-related mortality rate in the world. While there exists a multitude of health system barriers driving poor diabetes control, rural facilities particularly in SSA lack access to proper monitoring of glucose and other key biologic tests. At best, most of these diabetes patients receive random blood sugar readings only on the day of their clinic visit. This approach has very limited clinical value in determining dosage adjustments for narrow therapeutic index medications such as insulin. Furthermore, access to other blood tests and physical exam tools for detecting early signs of diabetes complications is limited. We propose that routine access to hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) testing would not only allow for close monitoring of diabetes control but also provide critical data informing the population level risk for diabetes complications. However, implementing HbA1c testing does have its own barriers at rural facilities, including high costs, refrigeration requirements, and perceived discordance between HbA1c values and mean blood glucose levels for SSA patients. Fortunately, several pilots in rural SSA have illustrated feasibility of HbA1c testing. Further political will, price reduction, and context-specific research are needed. Increasing access to HbA1c testing is a critical step to combat the high diabetes-related mortality rates in rural SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul H. Park
- Inshuti Mu Buzima/Partners In Health-Rwanda, PO Box 3432, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Sonak D. Pastakia
- Purdue Kenya Partnership, Purdue University College of Pharmacy, PO Box 5760, Eldoret 30100, Kenya
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