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Kpokiri EE, McDonald K, Abraha YG, Osorio L, Nath TC, Talavera-Urdanivia VA, Akinwale OP, Manabe YC, Castelnuovo B, Tang W, Yilma D, Mihut M, Ezechi O, Iwelunmor J, Kaba M, Abdissa A, Tucker JD. Health research mentorship in low-income and middle-income countries: a global qualitative evidence synthesis of data from a crowdsourcing open call and scoping review. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e011166. [PMID: 38184299 PMCID: PMC10773352 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2022-011166] [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: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research mentorship is critical for advancing science, but there are few practical strategies for cultivating mentorship in health research resource-limited settings. WHO/TDR Global commissioned a group to develop a practical guide on research mentorship. This global qualitative evidence synthesis included data from a crowdsourcing open call and scoping review to identify and propose strategies to enhance research mentorship in low/middle-income country (LMIC) institutions. METHODS The crowdsourcing open call used methods recommended by WHO/TDR and solicited descriptions of strategies to enhance research mentorship in LMICs. The scoping review used the Cochrane Handbook and predefined the approach in a protocol. We extracted studies focused on enhancing health research mentorship in LMICs. Textual data describing research mentorship strategies from the open call and studies from the scoping review were coded into themes. The quality of evidence supporting themes was assessed using the Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research approach. RESULTS The open call solicited 46 practical strategies and the scoping review identified 77 studies. We identified the following strategies to enhance research mentorship: recognising mentorship as an institutional responsibility that should be provided and expected from all team members (8 strategies, 15 studies; moderate confidence); leveraging existing research and training resources to enhance research mentorship (15 strategies, 49 studies; moderate confidence); digital tools to match mentors and mentees and sustain mentorship relations over time (14 strategies, 11 studies; low confidence); nurturing a culture of generosity so that people who receive mentorship then become mentors to others (7 strategies, 7 studies; low confidence); peer mentorship defined as informal and formal support from one researcher to another who is at a similar career stage (16 strategies, 12 studies; low confidence). INTERPRETATION Research mentorship is a collective institutional responsibility, and it can be strengthened in resource-limited institutions by leveraging already existing resources. The evidence from the crowdsourcing open call and scoping review informed a WHO/TDR practical guide. There is a need for more formal research mentorship programmes in LMIC institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eneyi E Kpokiri
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London, UK
| | - Kamryn McDonald
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Lyda Osorio
- School of Public Health, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - Tilak Chandra Nath
- Department of Parasitology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea (the Republic of)
- Department of Parasitology, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Yukari Carol Manabe
- Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Barbara Castelnuovo
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Weiming Tang
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Daniel Yilma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Michael Mihut
- TDR, The Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases co-sponsored by UNICEF, UNDP, the World Bank and WHO, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Ezechi
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Juliet Iwelunmor
- Saint Louis University College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Mirgissa Kaba
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemseged Abdissa
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London, UK
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Li L, Lin C, Pham LQ, Nguyen DB, Le TA. Networking community health workers for service integration: role of social media. AIDS Care 2023; 35:1030-1036. [PMID: 35014579 PMCID: PMC9271530 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.2019668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Community health workers (CHW) can play an active role in providing integrated HIV and harm reduction services. We used social media to create a virtual network among Vietnamese CHW. This paper reports CHW's social media engagement and the relationships with other work-related indicators. Sixty CHW participated in an intervention for integrated HIV/drug use service delivery. Following two in-person sessions, Facebook groups were established for CHW to share information, seek consultation, and refer patients. CHW's levels of online engagements were tracked for six months and linked to their service provision confidence, interaction with patients and other providers, and job satisfaction. The CHW made 181 posts, which received 557 comments and 1,607 reactions during the six months. Among the 60 CHW, 22 (36.6%) had three or more posts, 19 (31.7%) had one or two posts, and 19 (31.7%) had no post. Comparing the baseline and 6-month follow-up data, we observed that those who posted three or more times showed better service provision confidence (p = 0.0081), more interaction with providers in other settings (p = 0.0071), and higher job satisfaction (p = 0.0268). Our study suggests using social media to engage CHW in virtual communications to improve service provision in communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior – Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, U.S.A
| | - Chunqing Lin
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior – Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, U.S.A
| | - Loc Quang Pham
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior – Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, U.S.A
| | - Diep Bich Nguyen
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior – Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, U.S.A
| | - Tuan Anh Le
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Niyigena A, Nyirahabimana N, Cubaka V, Mukandayisenga V, Ngizwenayo E, Niyigena PC, Barnhart D. Knowledge and practices surrounding outbreaks and COVID-19 among community health workers in rural Rwanda: a cross-sectional mixed-methods study. Pan Afr Med J 2023; 45:35. [PMID: 37545611 PMCID: PMC10403765 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2023.45.35.37020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Community Health Workers (CHW) are a critical resource for outbreak preparedness and response. However, CHWs´ ability to respond to outbreaks depends on their accurate knowledge of the disease and proper adoption of disease prevention practices. We explored knowledge and practices related to outbreaks in general, and COVID-19 among CHWs in Rwanda. Methods this cross-sectional multimethod study used stratified simple random sampling to recruit three cadres of CHWs (agents de santé maternelle, female Binomes, and male Binomes) from three rural Rwandan districts. We used telephone-based data collection to administer quantitative surveys (N=292) and qualitative interviews (N=24) in September 2020. We calculated descriptive statistics and conducted thematic analysis of qualitative data. We assessed for associations between general outbreak-related knowledge and receipt of training using Chi-square tests and between COVID-19 related knowledge and CHW characteristics and adoption of prevention methods using linear regression models. Results only 56.2% of CHWs had received training on any health topic in 12 months prior to COVID-19 pandemic and only 19.2% had specifically received training on outbreak preparedness. Almost all CHWs reported preventing COVID-19 by wearing facemasks (98%), washing hands (95%), and social distancing in crowds (89%) with fewer reporting staying at home (50%), sneezing or coughing into an elbow (38%) or using hand sanitizer (18%). Almost all CHWs in our study knew that COVID-19 transmits through respiratory droplets (98%) and by infected surfaces (98%) and that asymptomatic spread is possible (91%). However, fewer than half of community health workers correctly affirmed that children were at low risk of becoming severely ill (48%) and only 32% correctly rejected the misconception that everyone with COVID-19 would become severely ill. There was no association between COVID-19-related knowledge and adoption of COVID-19 preventative practices. Qualitative findings suggested that while CHWs possessed lots of correct information about COVID-19 and reported good adherence to COVID-19 prevention practices, they also commonly held misconceptions that over-exaggerated the dangers of COVID-19. Conclusion gaps in knowledge, training, and access to information point to a need for additional investment in supervision and credible informational systems to support CHWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Niyigena
- Partners in Health, Inshuti Mu Buzima, PO Box 3432, KG9 Avenue 46, Remera, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Naome Nyirahabimana
- Partners in Health, Inshuti Mu Buzima, PO Box 3432, KG9 Avenue 46, Remera, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Vincent Cubaka
- Partners in Health, Inshuti Mu Buzima, PO Box 3432, KG9 Avenue 46, Remera, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Vestine Mukandayisenga
- Partners in Health, Inshuti Mu Buzima, PO Box 3432, KG9 Avenue 46, Remera, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Elias Ngizwenayo
- Partners in Health, Inshuti Mu Buzima, PO Box 3432, KG9 Avenue 46, Remera, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Dale Barnhart
- Partners in Health, Inshuti Mu Buzima, PO Box 3432, KG9 Avenue 46, Remera, Kigali, Rwanda
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States of America
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Guillaume D, Troncoso E, Duroseau B, Bluestone J, Fullerton J. Mobile-Social Learning for Continuing Professional Development in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Integrative Review. JMIR MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 8:e32614. [PMID: 35671080 PMCID: PMC9214614 DOI: 10.2196/32614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Access to continuing professional development (CPD) for health care workers in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is severely limited. Digital technology serves as a promising platform for supporting CPD for health care workers by providing educational content virtually and enabling virtual peer-to-peer and mentor interaction for enhanced learning. Digital strategies for CPD that foster virtual interaction can increase workforce retention and bolster the health workforce in LMICs. OBJECTIVE The objective of this integrative review was to evaluate the evidence on which digital platforms were used to provide CPD to health care workers and clinical students in LMICs, which was complemented with virtual peer-to-peer or mentor interaction. We phrased this intersection of virtual learning and virtual interaction as mobile-social learning. METHODS A comprehensive database and gray literature search was conducted to identify qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods studies, along with empirical evidence, that used digital technology to provide CPD and virtual interaction with peers or mentors. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed. Eligible articles were written in English, conducted in an LMIC, and used a mobile device to provide CPD and facilitate virtual peer-to-peer or mentor interaction. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were screened, followed by an assessment of the quality of evidence and an appraisal of the articles. A content analysis was then used to deductively code the data into emerging themes. RESULTS A total of 750 articles were identified, and 31 (4.1%) were included in the review. SMS text messaging and mobile instant messaging were the most common methods used to provide continuing education and virtual interaction between peers and mentors (25/31, 81%). Across the included articles, participants had high acceptability for using digital platforms for learning and interaction. Virtual peer interaction and mentorship were found to contribute to positive learning outcomes in most studies (27/31, 87%) through increased knowledge sharing, knowledge gains, improved clinical skills, and improved service delivery. Peer-to-peer and mentor interaction were found to improve social support and reduce feelings of isolation (9/31, 29%). There were several challenges in the implementation and use of digital technology for mobile-social learning, including limited access to resources (eg, internet coverage and stable electricity), flexibility in scheduling to participate in CPD, and sociobehavioral challenges among students. CONCLUSIONS The summary suggests that mobile-social learning is a useful modality for curriculum dissemination and skill training and that the interface of mobile and social learning serves as a catalyst for improved learning outcomes coupled with increased social capital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique Guillaume
- Jhpiego, Baltimore, MD, United States
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | - Brenice Duroseau
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Rodrigues SM, Kanduri A, Nyamathi A, Dutt N, Khargonekar P, Rahmani AM. Digital Health-Enabled Community-Centered Care: Scalable Model to Empower Future Community Health Workers Using Human-in-the-Loop Artificial Intelligence. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e29535. [PMID: 35384853 PMCID: PMC9021941 DOI: 10.2196/29535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Digital health-enabled community-centered care (D-CCC) represents a pioneering vision for the future of community-centered care. D-CCC aims to support and amplify the digital footprint of community health workers through a novel artificial intelligence-enabled closed-loop digital health platform designed for, and with, community health workers. By focusing digitalization at the level of the community health worker, D-CCC enables more timely, supported, and individualized community health worker-delivered interventions. D-CCC has the potential to move community-centered care into an expanded, digitally interconnected, and collaborative community-centered health and social care ecosystem of the future, grounded within a robust and digitally empowered community health workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Rodrigues
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Anil Kanduri
- Department of Computing, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Adeline Nyamathi
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Nikil Dutt
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Pramod Khargonekar
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Amir M Rahmani
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review summarizes technology-based interventions for HIV in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We highlight potential benefits and challenges to using telehealth in LMICs and propose areas for future study. RECENT FINDINGS We identified several models for using telehealth to expand HIV health care access in LMICs, including telemedicine visits for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) services, telementoring programs for providers, and virtual peer-support groups. Emerging data support the acceptability and feasibility of these strategies. However, further investigations are needed to determine whether these models are scalable and sustainable in the face of barriers related to cost, infrastructure, and regulatory approval. HIV telehealth interventions may be a valuable approach to addressing gaps along the HIV care cascade in LMICs. Future studies should focus on strategies for expanding existing programs to scale and for assessing long-term clinical outcomes.
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Ionescu A, de Jong PGM, Drop SLS, van Kampen SC. A scoping review of the use of e-learning and e-consultation for healthcare workers in low- and middle-income countries and their potential complementarity. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2021; 29:713-722. [PMID: 34966930 PMCID: PMC8922198 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocab271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although the provision of e-learning (EL) training for healthcare workers (HCWs) and provider-to-HCW e-consultation (EC) is considered useful for health outcomes, research on their joint use is limited. This scoping review aimed to create an overview of what is currently known in the literature about the use and implementation of EC and EL by HCWs in LMICs and to answer the question of whether there is evidence of complementarity. MATERIALS AND METHODS Scientific databases were searched and peer-reviewed papers were reviewed systematically according to predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Data were extracted including the study focus (EC/EL), year of publication, geographical location, target population, target disease(s) under study, type(s) of study outcomes, and article type. RESULTS A total of 3051 articles were retrieved and screened for eligibility, of which 96 were kept for analysis. Of these, only 3 addressed both EL and EC; 54 studies addressed EL; and 39 addressed EC. Most studies looked at gain in knowledge/skills usability, efficiency, competence, and satisfaction of HCW, or barriers/challenges to implementation. Descriptive studies focused on the application of EL or EC for targeting specific health conditions. Factors contributing to the success of EC or EL networks were institutional anchoring, multiple partnership, and capacity building of local experts. CONCLUSIONS Our review found an important gap in the literature in relation to the complementary role of EL and EC for HCWs in LMICs evidenced by outcome measures. There is an important role for national and international academic institutions, learned medical societies, and networks to support regional experts in providing EL and EC for added value that will help the clinical performance of HCWs and improve health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alma Ionescu
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter G M de Jong
- Center for Innovation in Medical Education, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Stenvert L S Drop
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Sophia Children’s Hospital, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,Corresponding Author: Stenvert L.S. Drop, MD, PhD, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Sophia Children’s Hospital, Erasmus MC, Sp2430, PO Box 2060, Rotterdam 3000 CB, The Netherlands;
| | - Sanne C van Kampen
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Otu A, Okuzu O, Effa E, Ebenso B, Ameh S, Nihalani N, Onwusaka O, Tawose T, Olayinka A, Walley J. Training health workers at scale in Nigeria to fight COVID-19 using the InStrat COVID-19 tutorial app: an e-health interventional study. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2021; 8:20499361211040704. [PMID: 34457270 PMCID: PMC8385598 DOI: 10.1177/20499361211040704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Health worker training is an essential component of epidemic control; rapid delivery of such training is possible in low-middle income countries with digital platforms. Methods: Based on prior experience with the Ebola outbreak, we developed and deployed a bespoke InStrat COVID-19 tutorial app, to deliver accurate and regularly updated information about COVID-19 to frontline health workers and epidemic response officers across 25 states of Nigeria. The potential effectiveness of this app in training frontline health workers was assessed through online pre- and post-tests and a survey. Results: A total of 1051 health workers from 25 states across Nigeria undertook the e-learning on the InStrat COVID-19 training app. Of these, 627 (57%) completed both the pre- and post-tests in addition to completing the training modules. Overall, there were statistically significant differences between pre- and post-tests knowledge scores (54 increasing to 74). There were also differences in the subcategories of sex, region and cadre. There were higher post-test scores in males compared with females, younger versus older and southern compared with northern Nigeria. A total of 65 (50%) of the participants reported that the app increased their understanding of COVID-19, while 69 (53%) stated that they had applied the knowledge and skills learnt at work. Overall, the functionality and usability of the app were satisfactory. Conclusion: Capacity building for epidemic control using e-health applications is potentially effective, can be delivered at minimal cost and service disruption and can serve as a tool for capacity building in similar contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akaninyene Otu
- Department of Infection and Travel Medicine, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Emmanuel Effa
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Bassey Ebenso
- Nuffield Centre for International Health and Development, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Soter Ameh
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | | | - Obiageli Onwusaka
- Foundation for Healthcare Innovation and Development, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | | | | | - John Walley
- Nuffield Centre for International Health and Development, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Use of eHealth for HIV Medical Education: a Narrative Review. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2021; 18:247-260. [PMID: 33817768 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-021-00553-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The complexity of HIV care and its expanding clinical workforce has created a need for new distance learning models to deliver medical education. We conducted a narrative review to assess the acceptability and effectiveness of recent eHealth HIV education interventions supporting HIV healthcare providers. RECENT FINDINGS Evidence from 24 articles revealed that synchronous (real time), asynchronous (any time), and hybrid (combination) models of eHealth education are feasible and acceptable. Only two interventions (one asynchronous, one hybrid) of 19 included in the review utilized a randomized controlled design. Some studies showed improvement in confidence and perceived quality of case management, but few studies were designed to demonstrate impact. Successful eHealth education interventions require a thorough understanding of the target community's capacity and needs. Both synchronous and asynchronous strategies appear acceptable and potentially effective, but more studies are needed to assess impact on knowledge and practices to determine the most effective delivery models.
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Hossain I, Mugoya I, Muchai L, Krudwig K, Davis N, Shimp L, Richart V. Blended Learning Using Peer Mentoring and WhatsApp for Building Capacity of Health Workers for Strengthening Immunization Services in Kenya. GLOBAL HEALTH: SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021; 9:201-215. [PMID: 33795370 PMCID: PMC8087436 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-20-00421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Innovative learning strategies are needed to improve frontline health workers' skills for achieving immunization coverage goals—now even more important with COVID-19. Peer mentoring and WhatsApp networking are low-cost and useful blended learning methods for need-based and individualized capacity building of health workers for improving immunization services that don't disrupt the health care workers' regular work. Evidence from available studies suggests that peer mentoring is a useful tool to build health workers' knowledge, skills, and practices. However, there is a dearth of research on use of this method of learning in immunization programs. Although WhatsApp has been used as a networking platform among health care professionals, there is limited research on its potential contribution to improving the immunization competencies of health workers. This study showed that peer mentoring and WhatsApp networking are useful blended learning methods for need-based and individualized capacity building of health workers providing immunization services. Future research to assess the comparative cost-benefit between classroom-based training and peer mentoring (along with WhatsApp networking) will be useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iqbal Hossain
- Immunization Center, JSI Research and Training Institute, Inc., Arlington, VA, USA.
| | - Isaac Mugoya
- JSI Research and Training Institute, Inc., Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lilian Muchai
- JSI Research and Training Institute, Inc., Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kirstin Krudwig
- Immunization Center, JSI Research and Training Institute, Inc., Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Nicole Davis
- Center for Health Information, Monitoring and Evaluation, JSI Research and Training Institute, Inc., Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Lora Shimp
- Immunization Center, JSI Research and Training Institute, Inc., Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Vanessa Richart
- Immunization Center, JSI Research and Training Institute, Inc., Arlington, VA, USA
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Peer Group Focused eHealth Strategies to Promote HIV Prevention, Testing, and Care Engagement. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2021; 17:557-576. [PMID: 32794071 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-020-00527-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Electronic communication platforms are increasingly used to support all steps of the HIV care cascade (an approach defined as eHealth). Most studies have employed individual-level approaches in which participants are connected with information, reminders, or a healthcare worker. Recent growth in use of social media platforms, which create digital communities, has created an opportunity to leverage virtual peer-to-peer connection to improve HIV prevention and care. In this article, we describe the current landscape of peer group eHealth interventions in the HIV field, based on a review of published literature, an online survey of unpublished ongoing work, and discussions with practitioners in the field in an in-person workshop. RECENT FINDINGS We identified 45 published articles and 12 ongoing projects meeting our inclusion criteria. Most reports were formative or observational; only three randomized evaluations of two interventions were reported. Studies indicated that use of peer group eHealth interventions is acceptable and has unique potential to influence health behaviors, but participants reported privacy concerns. Evaluations of health outcomes of peer group eHealth interventions show promising data, but more rigorous evaluations are needed. Development of group eHealth interventions presents unique technological, practical, and ethical challenges. Intervention design must consider privacy and data sovereignty concerns, and respond to rapid changes in platform use. Innovative development of open-source tools with high privacy standards is needed.
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