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Samwiri Nkambule E, Msiska G. Chronic illness experience in the context of resource-limited settings: a concept analysis. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2024; 19:2378912. [PMID: 39007854 PMCID: PMC11251436 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2024.2378912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM This review describes the ways in which individuals experience chronic illnesses in resource-limited settings; to define the concept and understand its attributes, antecedents and consequences. METHODS A comprehensive analysis of the databases CINAHL, PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted. During literature search the following limits were applied: articles published in English with available full-text; articles that focused on living with chronic illness in adults from the patient's perspective. RESULTS The following three attributes of chronic illness experience were identified: transformational experience, acceptance and self-management. Prominent predisposing factors (antecedents) were: genetic inheritance, malnutrition and poverty, high levels of stress and unhealthy lifestyle. The most dominant consequences were as follows: impact on quality of life; self-management burden; burden to others and economic stressors. CONCLUSIONS The findings underscore the need for health-care professionals to understand the chronic illness experience in the context of resource-limited settings and its consequences. The greater insights into the concept of chronic illness experience in resource-limited settings will guide nurses to support people in the realities of chronic illness experience in resource-limited settings in developing countries. This knowledge can guide nurses in providing competent care to chronically ill individuals, including meeting their individual needs with such illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gladys Msiska
- School of Nursing, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Lilongwe, Malawi
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Diallo BA, Hassan S, Kagwanja N, Oyando R, Badjie J, Mumba N, Prentice AM, Perel P, Etyang A, Nolte E, Tsofa B. Managing hypertension in rural Gambia and Kenya: Protocol for a qualitative study exploring the experiences of patients, health care workers, and decision-makers. NIHR OPEN RESEARCH 2024; 4:5. [PMID: 39238902 PMCID: PMC11375402 DOI: 10.3310/nihropenres.13523.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Background Hypertension is the single leading risk factor for premature death in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Prevalence is high, but awareness, treatment, and control are low. Community-centred interventions show promise for effective hypertension management, but embedding such interventions sustainably requires a good understanding of the wider context within which they are being introduced. This study aims to conduct a systematic health system assessment exploring the micro (patients/carers), meso (health care workers and facilities), and macro (broader system) contexts in rural Gambia and Kenya. Methods This study will utilise various qualitative approaches. We will conduct (i) focus group discussions with people living with hypertensive to map a 'typical' patient journey through health systems, and (ii) in-depth interviews with patients and family carers, health care workers, decision-makers, and NCD partners to explore their experiences of managing hypertension and assess the capacity and readiness of the health systems to strengthen hypertension management. We will also review national guidelines and policy documents to map the organisation of services and guidance on hypertension management. We will use thematic analysis to analyse data, guided by the cumulative complexity model, and theories of organisational readiness and dissemination of innovations. Expected findings This study will describe the current context for the management of hypertension from the perspective of those involved in seeking (patients), delivering (health care workers) and overseeing (decision-makers) health services in rural Gambia and Kenya. It will juxtapose what should be happening according to health system guidance and what is happening in practice, drawing on the experiences of study participants. It will outline the various barriers to and facilitators of hypertension management, as perceived by patients, providers, and decision-makers, and the conditions that would need to be in place for effective and sustainable implementation of a community-centred intervention to improve the management of hypertension in rural settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brahima A Diallo
- Nutrition and Planetary Health, MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM, Banjul, Other / None, 273, The Gambia
| | - Syreen Hassan
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | | | - Jainaba Badjie
- Nutrition and Planetary Health, MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM, Banjul, Other / None, 273, The Gambia
| | - Noni Mumba
- KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Andrew M Prentice
- Nutrition and Planetary Health, MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM, Banjul, Other / None, 273, The Gambia
| | - Pablo Perel
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Ellen Nolte
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Moulton JE, Botfield JR, Subasinghe AK, Withanage NN, Mazza D. Nurse and midwife involvement in task-sharing and telehealth service delivery models in primary care: A scoping review. J Clin Nurs 2024; 33:2971-3017. [PMID: 38500016 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.17106] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
AIM To synthesise and map current evidence on nurse and midwife involvement in task-sharing service delivery, including both face-to-face and telehealth models, in primary care. DESIGN This scoping review was informed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Methodology for Scoping Reviews. DATA SOURCE/REVIEW METHODS Five databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, CINAHL and Cochrane Library) were searched from inception to 16 January 2024, and articles were screened for inclusion in Covidence by three authors. Findings were mapped according to the research questions and review outcomes such as characteristics of models, health and economic outcomes, and the feasibility and acceptability of nurse-led models. RESULTS One hundred peer-reviewed articles (as 99 studies) were deemed eligible for inclusion. Task-sharing models existed for a range of conditions, particularly diabetes and hypertension. Nurse-led models allowed nurses to work to the extent of their practice scope, were acceptable to patients and providers, and improved health outcomes. Models can be cost-effective, and increase system efficiencies with supportive training, clinical set-up and regulatory systems. Some limitations to telehealth models are described, including technological issues, time burden and concerns around accessibility for patients with lower technological literacy. CONCLUSION Nurse-led models can improve health, economic and service delivery outcomes in primary care and are acceptable to patients and providers. Appropriate training, funding and regulatory systems are essential for task-sharing models with nurses to be feasible and effective. IMPACT Nurse-led models are one strategy to improve health equity and access; however, there is a scarcity of literature on what these models look like and how they work in the primary care setting. Evidence suggests these models can also improve health outcomes, are perceived to be feasible and acceptable, and can be cost-effective. Increased utilisation of nurse-led models should be considered to address health system challenges and improve access to essential primary healthcare services globally. REPORTING METHOD This review is reported against the PRISMA-ScR criteria. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION No patient or public contribution. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION The study protocol is published in BJGP Open (Moulton et al., 2022).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E Moulton
- SPHERE, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica R Botfield
- SPHERE, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
- Family Planning NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Asvini K Subasinghe
- SPHERE, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nishadi Nethmini Withanage
- SPHERE, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Danielle Mazza
- SPHERE, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
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Perkins AD, Awori JO, Jobe M, Lucinde RK, Siemonsma M, Oyando R, Leon DA, Herrett E, Prentice AM, Shah ASV, Perel P, Etyang A. Determining the optimal diagnostic and risk stratification approaches for people with hypertension in two rural populations in Kenya and The Gambia: a study protocol for IHCoR-Africa Work Package 2. NIHR OPEN RESEARCH 2024; 3:68. [PMID: 39139279 PMCID: PMC11319908 DOI: 10.3310/nihropenres.13509.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Background Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has one of the highest prevalences of hypertension worldwide. The impact of hypertension is of particular concern in rural SSA, where access to clinics and hospitals is limited. Improvements in the management of people with hypertension in rural SSA could be achieved by sharing diagnosis and care tasks between the clinic and the community. To develop such a community-centred programme we need optimal approaches to identify and risk stratify patients with elevated blood pressure. The aim of the study is to improve the evidence base for diagnosis and risk estimation for a community-centred hypertension programme in two rural settings in SSA. Methods We will conduct a cross-sectional study of 1250 adult participants in Kilifi, Kenya and Kiang West, The Gambia. The study has five objectives which will determine the: (1) accuracy of three blood pressure (BP) measurement methods performed by community health workers in identifying people with hypertension in rural SSA, compared to the reference standard method; (2) relationship between systolic BP and cardiovascular risk factors; (3) prevalence of hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD); (4) accuracy of innovative point-of-care (POC) technologies to identify patients with HMOD; and (5) cost-effectiveness of different combinations of BP and HMOD measurements for directing hypertension treatment initiation. Expected findings This study will determine the accuracy of three methods for community BP measurement and POC technologies for HMOD assessment. Using the optimal methods in this setting it will estimate the prevalence of hypertension and provide the best estimate to date of HMOD prevalence in SSA populations. The cost-effectiveness of decision-making approaches for initiating treatment of hypertension will be modelled. These results will inform the development of a community-centred programme to improve care for hypertensive patients living in rural SSA. Existing community engagement networks will be used to disseminated within the research setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander D Perkins
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Juliet Otieno Awori
- Department of Epidemiology and Demography, KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Modou Jobe
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at LSHTM, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Ruth K Lucinde
- Department of Epidemiology and Demography, KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Meike Siemonsma
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at LSHTM, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Robinson Oyando
- Health Economics Research Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David A Leon
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Emily Herrett
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | | | - Anoop SV Shah
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Pablo Perel
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Anthony Etyang
- Department of Epidemiology and Demography, KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - The IHCoR-Africa Collaborators
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Department of Epidemiology and Demography, KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at LSHTM, Banjul, The Gambia
- Health Economics Research Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
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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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Schmid B, Njeim C, Vijayasingham L, Sanga LA, Naimi RK, Fouad FM, Akik C, Zmeter C, Perone SA, Larsen LB, Roswall J, Ansbro É, Perel P. Implementing (and evaluating) peer support with people living with noncommunicable diseases in humanitarian settings. J Migr Health 2024; 9:100229. [PMID: 38633280 PMCID: PMC11021823 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmh.2024.100229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In line with the peer reviewers comments, the authors have added highlights in stead of an abstract. It was felt that it was better able to capture the findings and is more in line with the paper's target audience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Schmid
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lavanya Vijayasingham
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leah Anku Sanga
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Carla Zmeter
- International Committee of the Red Cross, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sigiriya Aebischer Perone
- International Committee of the Red Cross, Geneva, Switzerland
- Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Éimhín Ansbro
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pablo Perel
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Drown L, Osei M, Thapa A, Boudreaux C, Archer N, Bukhman G, Adler AJ. Models of care for sickle cell disease in low-income and lower-middle-income countries: a scoping review. Lancet Haematol 2024; 11:e299-e308. [PMID: 38432241 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3026(24)00007-3] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Sickle cell disease has a growing global burden falling primarily on low-income countries (LICs) and lower-middle-income countries (LMICs) where comprehensive care is often insufficient, particularly in rural areas. Integrated care models might be beneficial for improving access to care in areas with human resource and infrastructure constraints. As part of the Centre for Integration Science's ongoing efforts to define, systematise, and implement integrated care delivery models for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), this Review explores models of care for sickle cell disease in LICs and LMICs. We identified 99 models from 136 studies, primarily done in tertiary, urban facilities in LMICs. Except for two models of integrated care for concurrent treatment of other conditions, sickle cell disease care was mostly provided in specialised clinics, which are low in number and accessibility. The scarcity of published evidence of models of care for sickle cell disease and integrated care in rural settings of LICs and LMICs shows a need to implement more integrated models to improve access, particularly in rural areas. PEN-Plus, a model of decentralised, integrated care for severe chronic non-communicable diseases, provides an approach to service integration that could fill gaps in access to comprehensive sickle cell disease care in LICs and LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Drown
- Center for Integration Science in Global Health Equity, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Miriam Osei
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ada Thapa
- Center for Integration Science in Global Health Equity, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chantelle Boudreaux
- Center for Integration Science in Global Health Equity, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Natasha Archer
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA; Dana Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gene Bukhman
- Center for Integration Science in Global Health Equity, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Program in Global Noncommunicable Disease and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alma J Adler
- Center for Integration Science in Global Health Equity, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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Van Hout MC, Akugizibwe M, Shayo EH, Namulundu M, Kasujja FX, Namakoola I, Birungi J, Okebe J, Murdoch J, Mfinanga SG, Jaffar S. Decentralising chronic disease management in sub-Saharan Africa: a protocol for the qualitative process evaluation of community-based integrated management of HIV, diabetes and hypertension in Tanzania and Uganda. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078044. [PMID: 38508649 PMCID: PMC10961519 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078044] [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: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sub-Saharan Africa continues to experience a syndemic of HIV and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Vertical (stand-alone) HIV programming has provided high-quality care in the region, with almost 80% of people living with HIV in regular care and 90% virally suppressed. While integrated health education and concurrent management of HIV, hypertension and diabetes are being scaled up in clinics, innovative, more efficient and cost-effective interventions that include decentralisation into the community are required to respond to the increased burden of comorbid HIV/NCD disease. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This protocol describes procedures for a process evaluation running concurrently with a pragmatic cluster-randomised trial (INTE-COMM) in Tanzania and Uganda that will compare community-based integrated care (HIV, diabetes and hypertension) with standard facility-based integrated care. The INTE-COMM intervention will manage multiple conditions (HIV, hypertension and diabetes) in the community via health monitoring and adherence/lifestyle advice (medicine, diet and exercise) provided by community nurses and trained lay workers, as well as the devolvement of NCD drug dispensing to the community level. Based on Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory, the process evaluation will use qualitative methods to investigate sociostructural factors shaping care delivery and outcomes in up to 10 standard care facilities and/or intervention community sites with linked healthcare facilities. Multistakeholder interviews (patients, community health workers and volunteers, healthcare providers, policymakers, clinical researchers and international and non-governmental organisations), focus group discussions (community leaders and members) and non-participant observations (community meetings and drug dispensing) will explore implementation from diverse perspectives at three timepoints in the trial implementation. Iterative sampling and analysis, moving between data collection points and data analysis to test emerging theories, will continue until saturation is reached. This process of analytic reflexivity and triangulation across methods and sources will provide findings to explain the main trial findings and offer clear directions for future efforts to sustain and scale up community-integrated care for HIV, diabetes and hypertension. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The protocol has been approved by the University College of London (UK), the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Ethics Committee (UK), the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology and the Uganda Virus Research Institute Research and Ethics Committee (Uganda) and the Medical Research Coordinating Committee of the National Institute for Medical Research (Tanzania). The University College of London is the trial sponsor. Dissemination of findings will be done through journal publications and stakeholder meetings (with study participants, healthcare providers, policymakers and other stakeholders), local and international conferences, policy briefs, peer-reviewed journal articles and publications. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN15319595.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elizabeth Henry Shayo
- Health Systems, Policy and Translational Reseach Section, National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic
| | - Moreen Namulundu
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Wakiso, Uganda
| | | | - Ivan Namakoola
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Wakiso, Uganda
| | | | - Joseph Okebe
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jamie Murdoch
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King's College London, London, London, UK
| | - Sayoki Godfrey Mfinanga
- Muhimbili Medical Research Centre, National Institute for Medical Research Tanzania, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Shabbar Jaffar
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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Katende D, Kasamba I, Sekitoleko I, Nakuya K, Kusilika C, Buyinza A, Mubiru MC, Mutungi G, Nyirenda M, Grosskurth H, Baisley K. Medium-to-long term sustainability of a health systems intervention to improve service readiness and quality of non-communicable disease (NCD) patient care and experience at primary care settings in Uganda. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1022. [PMID: 37737179 PMCID: PMC10514956 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09983-7] [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: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the double burden of rising chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and persistent infectious diseases facing sub-Saharan Africa, integrated health service delivery strategies among resource-poor countries are needed. Our study explored the post-trial sustainability of a health system intervention to improve NCD care, introduced during a cluster randomised trial between 2013 and 2016 in Uganda, focusing on hypertension (HT) and type-2 diabetes mellitus (DM) services. In 2020, 19 of 38 primary care health facilities (HFs) that constituted the trial's original intervention arm until 2016 and 3 of 6 referral HFs that also received the intervention then, were evaluated on i) their facility performance (FPS) through health worker knowledge, and service availability and readiness (SAR), and ii) the quality-of-patient-care-and-experience (QoCE) received. METHODS Cross-sectional data from the original trial (2016) and our study (2020) were compared. FPS included a clinical knowledge test with 222 health workers: 131 (2016) and 91 (2020) and a five-element SAR assessment of all 22 HFs. QoCE assessment was performed among 420 patients: 88 (2016) and 332 (2020). Using a pair-matched approach, FPS and QoCE summary scores were compared. Linear and random effects Tobit regression models were also analysed. RESULTS The mean aggregate facility performance (FPS) in 2020 was lower than in 2016: 70.2 (95%CI = 66.0-74.5) vs. 74.8 (95%CI = 71.3-78.3) respectively, with no significant difference (p = 0.18). Mean scores declined in 4 of 5 SAR elements. Overall FPS was negatively affected by rural or urban HF location relative to peri-urban HFs (p < 0.01). FPS was not independently predicted but patient club functionality showed weak association (p = 0.09). QoCE declined slightly to 8.7 (95%CI = 8.4-91) in 2020 vs 9.5 (95%CI = 9.1-9.9) in 2016 (p = 0.02) while the proportion of patients receiving adequate quality care also declined slightly to 88.2% from 98.5% respectively, with no statistical difference (p = 0.20). Only the parent district weakly predicted QoCE (p = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Four years after the end of research-related support, overall facility performance had declined as expected because of the interrupted supplies and a decline in regular supervision. However, both service availability and readiness and quality of HT/DM care were surprisingly well preserved. Sustainability of an NCD intervention in similar settings may remain achievable despite the funding instability following a trial's end but organisational measures to prepare for the post-trial phase should be taken early on in the intervention process.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Katende
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Bloomsbury, London, UK.
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Ivan Kasamba
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Isaac Sekitoleko
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Bloomsbury, London, UK
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Kevin Nakuya
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Allan Buyinza
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | | | - Moffat Nyirenda
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Bloomsbury, London, UK
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Heiner Grosskurth
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Bloomsbury, London, UK
| | - Kathy Baisley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Bloomsbury, London, UK
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Okoroafor SC, Christmals CD. Optimizing the roles of health workers to improve access to health services in Africa: an implementation framework for task shifting and sharing for policy and practice. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:843. [PMID: 37559040 PMCID: PMC10410914 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09848-z] [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: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, countries are taking actions to ensure that their population have improved access to people-centred and integrated health services. Attaining this requires improved access to health workers at all levels of health service delivery and equitably distributed by geographical location. Due to the persistent health worker shortages, countries have resorted to implementing task shifting and task sharing in various settings to optimally utilize existing health workers to improve access to health services. There are deliberations on the need for an implementation framework to guide the adoption and operationalization of task shifting and task sharing as a key strategy for optimally utilizing the existing health workforce towards the achievement of UHC. The objective of this study was to develop an implementation framework for task shifting and task sharing for policy and practice in Africa. METHODS A sequential multimethod research design supported by scoping reviews, and qualitative descriptive study was employed in this study. The evidence generated was synthesized into an implementation framework that was evaluated for applicability in Africa by 36 subject matter experts. RESULTS The implementation framework for task shifting and task sharing has three core components - context, implementation strategies and intended change. The implementation strategies comprise of iterative actions in the development, translation, and sustainment phases that to achieve an intended change. The implementation strategies in the framework include mapping and engagement of stakeholders, generating evidence, development, implementation and review of a road map (or action plan) and national and/or sub-national policies and strategies, education of health workers using manuals, job aids, curriculum and clinical guidelines, and monitoring, evaluation, reviews and learning. CONCLUSION The implementation framework for task shifting and task sharing in Africa serves as a guide on actions needed to achieve national, regional and global goals based on contextual evidence. The framework illustrates the rationale and the role of a combination of factors (enablers and barriers) in influencing the implementation of task shifting and task sharing in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny C Okoroafor
- Universal Health Coverage - Life Course Cluster, World Health Organization Country Office for Uganda, Kampala, Uganda.
- Centre for Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Christmal Dela Christmals
- Centre for Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Okoroafor SC, Dela Christmals C. Health Professions Education Strategies for Enhancing Capacity for Task-Shifting and Task-Sharing Implementation in Africa: A Scoping Review. THE JOURNAL OF CONTINUING EDUCATION IN THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS 2023:00005141-990000000-00082. [PMID: 37341562 DOI: 10.1097/ceh.0000000000000517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To compensate for the shortage of health workers and effectively use the available health workforce to provide access to health services at various levels of the health system, several countries are implementing task-shifting and task-sharing (TSTS). This scoping review was conducted to synthesize evidence on health professions education (HPE) strategies applied to enhance capacities for TSTS implementation in Africa. METHODS This scoping review was conducted using the enhanced Arksey and O'Malley's framework for scoping reviews. The sources of evidence included CINAHL, PubMed, and Scopus. RESULTS Thirty-eight studies conducted in 23 countries provided insights on the strategies implemented in various health services contexts including general health, cancer screenings, reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health, HIV/AIDS, emergency care, hypertension, tuberculosis, eye care, diabetes, mental health, and medicines. The HPE strategies applied were in-service training, onsite clinical supervision and mentoring, periodic supportive supervision, provision of job aides, and preservice education. DISCUSSION Scaling up HPE based on the evidence from this study will contribute immensely to enhancing the capacity of health workers in contexts where TSTS are being implemented or planned to provide quality health services based on the population's health needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny C Okoroafor
- Dr. Okoroafor: Technical Officer, Health Systems Strengthening, Universal Health Coverage-Life Course Cluster, World Health Organization Country Office for Uganda, Kampala, Uganda. Dr. Dela Christmals: Associate Professor, Centre for Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Van Hout MC, Zalwango F, Akugizibwe M, Chaka MN, Birungi J, Okebe J, Jaffar S, Bachmann M, Murdoch J. Implementing integrated care clinics for HIV-infection, diabetes and hypertension in Uganda (INTE-AFRICA): process evaluation of a cluster randomised controlled trial. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:570. [PMID: 37268916 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09534-0] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing a dual burden of chronic human immunodeficiency virus and non-communicable diseases. A pragmatic parallel arm cluster randomised trial (INTE-AFRICA) scaled up 'one-stop' integrated care clinics for HIV-infection, diabetes and hypertension at selected facilities in Uganda. These clinics operated integrated health education and concurrent management of HIV, hypertension and diabetes. A process evaluation (PE) aimed to explore the experiences, attitudes and practices of a wide variety of stakeholders during implementation and to develop an understanding of the impact of broader structural and contextual factors on the process of service integration. METHODS The PE was conducted in one integrated care clinic, and consisted of 48 in-depth interviews with stakeholders (patients, healthcare providers, policy-makers, international organisation, and clinical researchers); three focus group discussions with community leaders and members (n = 15); and 8 h of clinic-based observation. An inductive analytical approach collected and analysed the data using the Empirical Phenomenological Psychological five-step method. Bronfenbrenner's ecological framework was subsequently used to conceptualise integrated care across multiple contextual levels (macro, meso, micro). RESULTS Four main themes emerged; Implementing the integrated care model within healthcare facilities enhances detection of NCDs and comprehensive co-morbid care; Challenges of NCD drug supply chains; HIV stigma reduction over time, and Health education talks as a mechanism for change. Positive aspects of integrated care centred on the avoidance of duplication of care processes; increased capacity for screening, diagnosis and treatment of previously undiagnosed comorbid conditions; and broadening of skills of health workers to manage multiple conditions. Patients were motivated to continue receiving integrated care, despite frequent NCD drug stock-outs; and development of peer initiatives to purchase NCD drugs. Initial concerns about potential disruption of HIV care were overcome, leading to staff motivation to continue delivering integrated care. CONCLUSIONS Implementing integrated care has the potential to sustainably reduce duplication of services, improve retention in care and treatment adherence for co/multi-morbid patients, encourage knowledge-sharing between patients and providers, and reduce HIV stigma. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN43896688.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Flavia Zalwango
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Research Unit, MRC/UVRI & LSHTM, Entebbe, Uganda
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Okpechi IG, Chukwuonye II, Ekrikpo U, Noubiap JJ, Raji YR, Adeshina Y, Ajayi S, Barday Z, Chetty M, Davidson B, Effa E, Fagbemi S, George C, Kengne AP, Jones ESW, Liman H, Makusidi M, Muhammad H, Mbah I, Ndlovu K, Ngaruiya G, Okwuonu C, Samuel-Okpechi U, Tannor EK, Ulasi I, Umar Z, Wearne N, Bello AK. Task shifting roles, interventions and outcomes for kidney and cardiovascular health service delivery among African populations: a scoping review. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:446. [PMID: 37147670 PMCID: PMC10163711 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09416-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human resources for health (HRH) shortages are a major limitation to equitable access to healthcare. African countries have the most severe shortage of HRH in the world despite rising communicable and non-communicable disease (NCD) burden. Task shifting provides an opportunity to fill the gaps in HRH shortage in Africa. The aim of this scoping review is to evaluate task shifting roles, interventions and outcomes for addressing kidney and cardiovascular (CV) health problems in African populations. METHODS We conducted this scoping review to answer the question: "what are the roles, interventions and outcomes of task shifting strategies for CV and kidney health in Africa?" Eligible studies were selected after searching MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL, ISI Web of Science, and Africa journal online (AJOL). We analyzed the data descriptively. RESULTS Thirty-three studies, conducted in 10 African countries (South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, and Uganda) were eligible for inclusion. There were few randomized controlled trials (n = 6; 18.2%), and tasks were mostly shifted for hypertension (n = 27; 81.8%) than for diabetes (n = 16; 48.5%). More tasks were shifted to nurses (n = 19; 57.6%) than pharmacists (n = 6; 18.2%) or community health workers (n = 5; 15.2%). Across all studies, the most common role played by HRH in task shifting was for treatment and adherence (n = 28; 84.9%) followed by screening and detection (n = 24; 72.7%), education and counselling (n = 24; 72.7%), and triage (n = 13; 39.4%). Improved blood pressure levels were reported in 78.6%, 66.7%, and 80.0% for hypertension-related task shifting roles to nurses, pharmacists, and CHWs, respectively. Improved glycaemic indices were reported as 66.7%, 50.0%, and 66.7% for diabetes-related task shifting roles to nurses, pharmacists, and CHWs, respectively. CONCLUSION Despite the numerus HRH challenges that are present in Africa for CV and kidney health, this study suggests that task shifting initiatives can improve process of care measures (access and efficiency) as well as identification, awareness and treatment of CV and kidney disease in the region. The impact of task shifting on long-term outcomes of kidney and CV diseases and the sustainability of NCD programs based on task shifting remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikechi G Okpechi
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Ijezie I Chukwuonye
- Department of Internal Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
| | - Udeme Ekrikpo
- Division of Nephrology, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibo State, Uyo, Nigeria
| | - Jean Jacques Noubiap
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yemi R Raji
- Department of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Yusuf Adeshina
- Division of Nephrology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Samuel Ajayi
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Zunaid Barday
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Malini Chetty
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bianca Davidson
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Emmanuel Effa
- Department of Medicine, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
- Department of Internal Medicine, Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Stephen Fagbemi
- Department of Epidemiology, Ondo State Ministry of Health, Ondo, Nigeria
| | - Cindy George
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Unit, South Africa Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Andre P Kengne
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Unit, South Africa Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Erika S W Jones
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hamidu Liman
- Division of Nephrology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Mohammad Makusidi
- Division of Nephrology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Hadiza Muhammad
- Division of Nephrology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Ikechukwu Mbah
- Dept of Medicine College of Med and Health Sciences, Bingham University, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Kwazi Ndlovu
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Chimezie Okwuonu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
| | | | - Elliot K Tannor
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ifeoma Ulasi
- Department of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Ituku Ozalla, Enugu State, Nigeria
| | - Zulkifilu Umar
- Department of Epidemiology, Ondo State Ministry of Health, Ondo, Nigeria
| | - Nicola Wearne
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Aminu K Bello
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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Okoroafor SC, Christmals CD. Task Shifting and Task Sharing Implementation in Africa: A Scoping Review on Rationale and Scope. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:1200. [PMID: 37108033 PMCID: PMC10138489 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11081200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have reported task shifting and task sharing due to various reasons and with varied scopes of health services, either task-shifted or -shared. However, very few studies have mapped the evidence on task shifting and task sharing. We conducted a scoping review to synthesize evidence on the rationale and scope of task shifting and task sharing in Africa. We identified peer-reviewed papers from PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL bibliographic databases. Studies that met the eligibility criteria were charted to document data on the rationale for task shifting and task sharing, and the scope of tasks shifted or shared in Africa. The charted data were thematically analyzed. Sixty-one studies met the eligibility criteria, with fifty-three providing insights on the rationale and scope of task shifting and task sharing, and seven on the scope and one on rationale, respectively. The rationales for task shifting and task sharing were health worker shortages, to optimally utilize existing health workers, and to expand access to health services. The scope of health services shifted or shared in 23 countries were HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, hypertension, diabetes, mental health, eyecare, maternal and child health, sexual and reproductive health, surgical care, medicines' management, and emergency care. Task shifting and task sharing are widely implemented in Africa across various health services contexts towards ensuring access to health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny C. Okoroafor
- Universal Health Coverage—Life Course Cluster, World Health Organization Country Office for Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
- Centre for Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Building PC-G16, Office 101, 11 Hoffman Street, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Christmal Dela Christmals
- Centre for Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Building PC-G16, Office 101, 11 Hoffman Street, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
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Kavita K, Thakur J, Ghai S, Narang T, Kaur R. Nurse-led interventions for prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NONCOMMUNICABLE DISEASES 2023. [DOI: 10.4103/jncd.jncd_74_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
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Zarei M, Mojarrab S, Bazrafkan L, Shokrpour N. The role of continuing medical education programs in promoting iranian nurses, competency toward non-communicable diseases, a qualitative content analysis study. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:731. [PMID: 36280836 PMCID: PMC9589750 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03804-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continuing medical education is essential for nurses to provide quality patient care and upgrade their professional skills and competence. The need for continuing medical education (CME) has become more apparent in the face of advances in medical science, the ever-changing healthcare system, and nurses' vital role in improving health care. It is, therefore, imperative to explore the nurses' experience of CME courses and the extent to which such programs are effective. OBJECTIVE The present qualitative study aimed to explore and describe nurses' experiences of the effect of CE programs in promoting their competencies toward non-communicable diseases. METHODS This qualitative content analysis study was conducted from December 2019 to April 2020 at various hospitals affiliated to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (Shiraz, Iran) and based on the principles of conventional content analysis. The target population was nurses who actively worked in the chronic wards of these hospitals. The participants were selected using maximum variation sampling, including nine nursing managers, education and clinical supervisors, and staff nurses. Data were collected through individual, face-to-face, semi-structured interviews guided by an interview guide, and data collection continued until data saturation was achieved. Each interview took about 30-45 min. Follow up questions were used for clarification when needed. Data trustworthiness was assessed according to the criteria proposed by Guba and Lincoln. RESULTS Analysis of the interview data resulted in 230 primary codes, based on 8 categories, and three themes were identified. The extracted themes were gaps in the planning of the CME program, problematic context, and training to improve professional skills and competency. The associated categories were gaps in the planning of the CME program, problematic context, and training to improve professional skills and competency. CONCLUSION Professional competence and performance of nurses can be improved through intrinsic motivation stimulation, planning, and implementation of training programs based on professional needs and effective assessment of the teaching/learning process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Zarei
- Medical Education Development Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sadaf Mojarrab
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Leila Bazrafkan
- Clinical Education Research Centre, Education Development Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran, Sina Sadra Halls, Neshat Ave, 7134874689.
- , Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Nasrin Shokrpour
- English Department, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Harris P, Kirkland R, Masanja S, Le Feuvre P, Montgomery S, Ansbro É, Woodman M, Harris M. Strengthening the primary care workforce to deliver high-quality care for non-communicable diseases in refugee settings: lessons learnt from a UNHCR partnership. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:bmjgh-2021-007334. [PMID: 35798443 PMCID: PMC9272076 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-communicable disease (NCD) prevention and care in humanitarian contexts has been a long-neglected issue. Healthcare systems in humanitarian settings have focused heavily on communicable diseases and immediate life-saving health needs. NCDs are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in refugee settings, however, in many situations NCD care is not well integrated into primary healthcare services. Increased risk of poorer outcomes from COVID-19 for people living with NCDs has heightened the urgency of responding to NCDs and shone a spotlight on their relative neglect in these settings. Partnering with the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) since 2014, Primary Care International has provided clinical guidance and Training of Trainer (ToT) courses on NCDs to 649 health professionals working in primary care in refugee settings in 13 countries. Approximately 2300 healthcare workers (HCW) have been reached through cascade trainings over the last 6 years. Our experience has shown that, despite fragile health services, high staff turnover and competing clinical priorities, it is possible to improve NCD knowledge, skills and practice. ToT programmes are a feasible and practical format to deliver NCD training to mixed groups of HCW (doctors, nurses, technical officers, pharmacy technicians and community health workers). Clinical guidance must be adapted to local settings while co-creating an enabling environment for health workers is essential to deliver accessible, high-quality continuity of care for NCDs. On-going support for non-clinical systems change is equally critical for sustained impact. A shared responsibility for cascade training—and commitment from local health partners—is necessary to raise NCD awareness, influence local and national policy and to meet the UNHCR’s objective of facilitating access to integrated prevention and control of NCDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Saimon Masanja
- School of Public Health, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences (CUHAS), Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Éimhín Ansbro
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Michael Woodman
- The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Matthew Harris
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Stokes K, Oronti B, Cappuccio FP, Pecchia L. Use of technology to prevent, detect, manage and control hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058840. [PMID: 35383086 PMCID: PMC8984054 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify and assess the use of technologies, including mobile health technology, internet of things (IoT) devices and artificial intelligence (AI) in hypertension healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). DESIGN Systematic review. DATA SOURCES Medline, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Studies addressing outcomes related to the use of technologies for hypertension healthcare (all points in the healthcare cascade) in SSA. METHODS Databases were searched from inception to 2 August 2021. Screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were done in duplicate. Data were extracted on study design, setting, technology(s) employed and outcomes. Blood pressure (BP) reduction due to intervention was extracted from a subset of randomised controlled trials. Methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. RESULTS 1717 hits were retrieved, 1206 deduplicated studies were screened and 67 full texts were assessed for eligibility. 22 studies were included, all reported on clinical investigations. Two studies were observational, and 20 evaluated technology-based interventions. Outcomes included BP reduction/control, treatment adherence, retention in care, awareness/knowledge of hypertension and completeness of medical records. All studies used mobile technology, three linked with IoT devices. Short Message Service (SMS) was the most popular method of targeting patients (n=6). Moderate BP reduction was achieved in three randomised controlled trials. Patients and healthcare providers reported positive perceptions towards the technologies. No studies using AI were identified. CONCLUSIONS There are a range of successful applications of key enabling technologies in SSA, including BP reduction, increased health knowledge and treatment adherence following targeted mobile technology interventions. There is evidence to support use of mobile technology for hypertension management in SSA. However, current application of technologies is highly heterogeneous and key barriers exist, limiting efficacy and uptake in SSA. More research is needed, addressing objective measures such as BP reduction in robust randomised studies. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020223043.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy Stokes
- School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Busola Oronti
- School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Francesco P Cappuccio
- Division of Health Sciences, University of Warwick, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
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Ansbro É, Issa R, Willis R, Blanchet K, Perel P, Roberts B. Chronic NCD care in crises: A qualitative study of global experts' perspectives on models of care for hypertension and diabetes in humanitarian settings. J Migr Health 2022; 5:100094. [PMID: 35434681 PMCID: PMC9010603 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmh.2022.100094] [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: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The high and rising global burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is reflected among crisis-affected populations. People living with NCDs are especially vulnerable in humanitarian crises. Limited guidance exists to support humanitarian actors in designing effective models of NCD care for crisis-affected populations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We aimed to synthesise expert opinion on current care models for hypertension and diabetes (HTN/DM) in humanitarian settings in LMICs, to examine the gaps in delivering good quality HTN/DM care and to propose solutions to address these gaps. Methods We interviewed twenty global experts, purposively selected based on their expertise in provision of NCD care in humanitarian settings. Data were analysed using a combination of inductive and deductive methods. We used a conceptual framework for primary care models for HTN/DM in humanitarian settings, guided by the WHO health systems model, patient-centred care models and literature on NCD care in LMICs. Results HTN/DM care model design was highly dependent on the type of humanitarian crisis, the implementing organisation, the target population, the underlying health system readiness to deal with NCDs and its resilience in the face of crisis. Current models were mainly based at primary-care level, in prolonged crisis settings. Participants focussed on the basic building blocks of care, including training the workforce, and strengthening supply chains and information systems. Intermediate health system goals (responsiveness, quality and safety) and final goals received less attention. There were notable gaps in standardisation and continuity of care, integration with host systems, and coordination with other actors. Participants recommended a health system strengthening approach and aspired to providing patient-centred care. However, more evidence on effective integration and on patients' priorities and experience is needed. More funding is needed for NCD care and related research. Conclusions Comprehensive guidance would foster standardization, continuity, integration and, thus, better quality care. Future models should take a health system strengthening approach, use patient-centred design, and should be co-created with patients and providers. Those designing new models may draw on lessons learned from existing chronic care models in high- and low-income settings.
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Key Words
- BP, Blood Pressure
- COPD, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
- Conflict
- DM I/II, Diabetes Mellitus Type I or II
- Diabetes
- FBS, Fasting Blood Sugar
- HCW, Health Care Workers
- HTN, Hypertension
- HbA1c, Glycosylated Haemoglobin
- Humanitarian
- Hypertension
- LMIC, Low- and Middle-Income Countries
- MENA, Middle East and North Africa
- MHPSS, Mental Health and Psychosocial Support
- MOH, Ministry of Health
- MSF, Médecins sans Frontières
- NCDs, Non-communicable Diseases
- NGOs, Non-governmental Organisations
- Noncommunicable disease
- Refugee
- UNHCR, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
- WHO, World Health Organization
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Affiliation(s)
- Éimhín Ansbro
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine,15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Rita Issa
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine,15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Willis
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine,15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom
| | - Karl Blanchet
- Health in Humanitarian Crises Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Pablo Perel
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Bayard Roberts
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine,15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
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Zhao Y, Hagel C, Tweheyo R, Sirili N, Gathara D, English M. Task-sharing to support paediatric and child health service delivery in low- and middle-income countries: current practice and a scoping review of emerging opportunities. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2021; 19:95. [PMID: 34348709 PMCID: PMC8336272 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-021-00637-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Demographic and epidemiological changes have prompted thinking on the need to broaden the child health agenda to include care for complex and chronic conditions in the 0-19 years (paediatric) age range. Providing such services will be undermined by general and skilled paediatric workforce shortages especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In this paper, we aim to understand existing, sanctioned forms of task-sharing to support the delivery of care for more complex and chronic paediatric and child health conditions in LMICs and emerging opportunities for task-sharing. We specifically focus on conditions other than acute infectious diseases and malnutrition that are historically shifted. METHODS We (1) reviewed the Global Burden of Diseases study to understand which conditions may need to be prioritized; (2) investigated training opportunities and national policies related to task-sharing (current practice) in five purposefully selected African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi and South Africa); and (3) summarized reported experience of task-sharing and paediatric and child health service delivery through a scoping review of research literature in LMICs published between 1990 and 2019 using MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, PsycINFO, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library. RESULTS We found that while some training opportunities nominally support emerging roles for non-physician clinicians and nurses, formal scopes of practices often remain rather restricted and neither training nor policy seems well aligned with probable needs from high-burden complex and chronic conditions. From 83 studies in 24 LMICs, and aside from the historically shifted conditions, we found some evidence examining task-sharing for a small set of specific conditions (circumcision, some complex surgery, rheumatic heart diseases, epilepsy, mental health). CONCLUSION As child health strategies are further redesigned to address the previously unmet needs careful strategic thinking on the development of an appropriate paediatric workforce is needed. To achieve coverage at scale countries may need to transform their paediatric workforce including possible new roles for non-physician cadres to support safe, accessible and high-quality care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingxi Zhao
- Oxford Centre for Global Health Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, S Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK.
| | - Christiane Hagel
- Oxford Centre for Global Health Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, S Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Raymond Tweheyo
- Department of Health Policy Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Public Health, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Nathanael Sirili
- Department of Development Studies, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - David Gathara
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
- MARCH Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mike English
- Oxford Centre for Global Health Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, S Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
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21
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Jaung MS, Willis R, Sharma P, Aebischer Perone S, Frederiksen S, Truppa C, Roberts B, Perel P, Blanchet K, Ansbro É. Models of care for patients with hypertension and diabetes in humanitarian crises: a systematic review. Health Policy Plan 2021; 36:509-532. [PMID: 33693657 PMCID: PMC8128021 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czab007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Care for non-communicable diseases, including hypertension and diabetes (HTN/DM), is recognized as a growing challenge in humanitarian crises, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where most crises occur. There is little evidence to support humanitarian actors and governments in designing efficient, effective, and context-adapted models of care for HTN/DM in such settings. This article aimed to systematically review the evidence on models of care targeting people with HTN/DM affected by humanitarian crises in LMICs. A search of the MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, Global Indexus Medicus, Web of Science, and EconLit bibliographic databases and grey literature sources was performed. Studies were selected that described models of care for HTN/DM in humanitarian crises in LMICs. We descriptively analysed and compared models of care using a conceptual framework and evaluated study quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. We report our findings according to PRISMA guidelines. The search yielded 10 645 citations, of which 45 were eligible for this review. Quantitative methods were most commonly used (n = 34), with four qualitative, three mixed methods, and four descriptive reviews of specific care models were also included. Most studies detailed primary care facility-based services for HTN/DM, focusing on health system inputs. More limited references were made to community-based services. Health care workforce and treatment protocols were commonly described framework components, whereas few studies described patient centredness, quality of care, financing and governance, broader health policy, and sociocultural contexts. There were few programme evaluations or effectiveness studies, and only one study reported costs. Most studies were of low quality. We concluded that an increasing body of literature describing models of care for patients with HTN/DM in humanitarian crises demonstrated the development of context-adapted services but showed little evidence of impact. Our conceptual framework could be used for further research and development of NCD models of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Jaung
- Department of Health Services Research & Policy and Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, Faculty of Public Health & Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, 1504 Ben Taub Loop, Houston, 77030, TX, USA
| | - Ruth Willis
- Department of Health Services Research & Policy and Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, Faculty of Public Health & Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - Piyu Sharma
- Department of Health Services Research & Policy and Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, Faculty of Public Health & Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - Sigiriya Aebischer Perone
- Health Unit, international Committee of the Red Cross, Avenue de la Paix 19, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Claudia Truppa
- Health Unit, international Committee of the Red Cross, Avenue de la Paix 19, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bayard Roberts
- Department of Health Services Research & Policy and Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, Faculty of Public Health & Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - Pablo Perel
- Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology and Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Karl Blanchet
- Geneva Centre of Humanitarian Studies, University of Geneva, 24 rue du Général-Dufour, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Éimhín Ansbro
- Department of Health Services Research & Policy and Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, Faculty of Public Health & Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
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Bausch FJ, Beran D, Hering H, Boulle P, Chappuis F, Dromer C, Saaristo P, Perone SA. Operational considerations for the management of non-communicable diseases in humanitarian emergencies. Confl Health 2021; 15:9. [PMID: 33632275 PMCID: PMC7905755 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-021-00345-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-communicable diseases (NCD) represent an increasing global challenge with the majority of mortality occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Concurrently, many humanitarian crises occur in these countries and the number of displaced persons, either refugees or internally displaced, has reached the highest level in history. Until recently NCDs in humanitarian contexts were a neglected issue, but this is changing. Humanitarian actors are now increasingly integrating NCD care in their activities and recognizing the need to harmonize and enhance NCD management in humanitarian crises. However, there is a lack of a standardized response during operations as well as a lack of evidence-based NCD management guidelines in humanitarian settings. An informal working group on NCDs in humanitarian settings, formed by members of the World Health Organization, Médecins Sans Frontières, the International Committee of the Red Cross, the International Federation of the Red Cross and others, and led by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, teamed up with the University of Geneva and Geneva University Hospitals to develop operational considerations for NCDs in humanitarian settings. This paper presents these considerations, aiming at ensuring appropriate planning, management and care for NCD-affected persons during the different stages of humanitarian emergencies. Key components include access to treatment, continuity of care including referral pathways, therapeutic patient education/patient self-management, community engagement and health promotion. In order to implement these components, a standardized approach will support a consistent response, and should be based on an ethical foundation to ensure that the "do no harm" principle is upheld. Advocacy supported by evidence is important to generate visibility and resource allocation for NCDs. Only a collaborative approach of all actors involved in NCD management will allow the spectrum of needs and continuum of care for persons affected by NCDs to be properly addressed in humanitarian programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Jacquerioz Bausch
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - D. Beran
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 6, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - H. Hering
- United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Rue de Montbrillant 94, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - P. Boulle
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Rue de Lausanne 78, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - F. Chappuis
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - C. Dromer
- Health Unit, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), 19, avenue de la Paix, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - P. Saaristo
- International Federation of the Red Cross, Chemin des Crêts 17, 1209 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - S. Aebischer Perone
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland
- Health Unit, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), 19, avenue de la Paix, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
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23
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Koltai DC, Smith CE, Cai GY, Ratliff O, Kakooza-Mwesige A, Najjuma JN, Muhindo R, Rukundo GZ, Teuwen DE, Kayanja A, Kalubi P, Haglund MM, Fuller AT. Healthcare provider perspectives regarding epilepsy care in Uganda. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107294. [PMID: 32763023 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy is the most common chronic neurological disorder in the world and imposes a large economic burden on global healthcare systems, especially in low-income settings and rural areas as is found in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite the high epilepsy prevalence, there are no systematic descriptions of healthcare provider (HCP) perceptions and needs in managing people with epilepsy (PWE) in Uganda. Identifying these perceptions and needs is crucial for understanding community priorities, thereby enhancing the development of culturally sensitive communications, interventions, and research approaches. METHODS In this qualitative study, we used semistructured interview guides to conduct focus group discussions that explored the perspectives of 32 providers of epilepsy care from health facilities around Mbarara, Uganda. Our sample included nonspecialized general physicians (n = 3), medical residents (n = 8), medical clinical officers (n = 3), psychiatric clinical nurses (n = 6), medical nurses and nursing assistants (n = 9), and other providers (n = 3), who were loosely grouped into discussion groups based on level or type of training. Self-assessed proficiency ratings were also administered to gain a better understanding of participants' confidence in their training, preparedness, and capabilities regarding epilepsy care. Thematic analysis of the focus group transcripts was conducted to ascertain commonly occurring themes about perceptions and challenges in epilepsy care. RESULTS Our analyses identified nine major themes that dominated the perspectives of the study participants: care management, medications, diagnostics, HCP training, human resources, location, patient education, social support, and community knowledge and beliefs. Proficiency ratings prioritized areas of confidence as knowledge related to referrals, psychosocial impacts, and seizure neurophysiology. Areas of need were revealed as knowledge of diagnostic tools and antiepileptic drug (AED) regimens. CONCLUSIONS Our findings delineate the perspectives of providers caring for PWE, with consistent recognition of challenges centering around resource augmentation, infrastructure strengthening, and education. Participants emphasized the urgent need to augment these resources to address limitations in medication types and access, trained human resources, and diagnostic tools. They overwhelmingly recognized the need for infrastructure strengthening to address human, diagnostic, medicinal, and capital resource limitations that place undue burden on patients with epilepsy and physicians. Providers indicated a clear desire to learn more about different diagnostic tools and medical management practices, potentially through continuing education, specialized training, or more intentional in-school diagnostic preparation. They also advocated for the powerful influence of patient and family education and clearly articulated the need for community sensitization and support. This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda".
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah C Koltai
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC, Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Caleigh E Smith
- Duke University Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Grace Y Cai
- Duke University Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Olivia Ratliff
- Duke University Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Josephine N Najjuma
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology Department of Nursing, Plot 8 - 18 Kabale Road, PO Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda; Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Rose Muhindo
- Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda; Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Department of Medicine, Plot 8 - 18 Kabale Road, PO Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Godfrey Z Rukundo
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Plot 8 - 18 Kabale Road, PO Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Dirk E Teuwen
- UCB, Allée de la recherche 60, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Adrian Kayanja
- Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda; Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Department of Medicine, Plot 8 - 18 Kabale Road, PO Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Peter Kalubi
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Plot 8 - 18 Kabale Road, P. O Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Michael M Haglund
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Anthony T Fuller
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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24
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Stakeholder views of the practical and cultural barriers to epilepsy care in Uganda. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107314. [PMID: 32758404 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent, treatable neurological diseases globally. In sub-Saharan Africa, people with epilepsy (PWE) frequently seek treatment from traditional or pastoral healers, who are more accessible than biomedical care providers. This often contributes to the substantial time delay in obtaining adequate biomedical care for these patients. In Uganda, the few biomedical providers who can treat epilepsy cannot meet the great need for epilepsy care. Additionally, patients are often hesitant to seek biomedical care, often preferring the easily accessible and trusted sociocultural treatment options. This study sought to elucidate the barriers to biomedical care for PWE as well as identify potential solutions to overcome these barriers from various stakeholder perspectives. METHODS This study used qualitative research methods. Semistructured interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with four major stakeholder groups: PWE or family members of PWE, neurologists and psychiatrists, traditional healers, and pastoral healers. All interviews and focus group discussions that were in English were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Those that were not in English were translated live and audio recorded. A translator later translated the non-English portion of audio recording to ensure proper interpretation. Two independent coders coded the dataset and conducted an inter-rater reliability (IRR) assessment to ensure reliable coding of the data. Thematic analysis was then performed to discern themes from the data and compare nuances between each of the study design groups. RESULTS Participants discussed several different causes of epilepsy ranging from spiritual to biological causes, often incorporating elements of both. Commonly endorsed spiritual causes of epilepsy included witchcraft and ancestral spirits. Commonly endorsed biological causes included genetics, fever, malaria, and brain injury. For patients and families, beliefs about the cause of epilepsy often played a role in whom they chose to seek treatment from. Three major barriers to biomedical care were discussed: practical barriers, medical infrastructure barriers, and barriers related to stigma. Practical barriers related to issues such as transportation, cost of medical care, and distance to the nearest healthcare facility. Under medical infrastructure, drug stock-outs and lack of access to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) were the most consistent problems stated among patients. Stigma was heavily discussed and brought up by nearly every participant. Additionally, three significant solutions to improving epilepsy care in Uganda were highlighted by participants: collaboration among treatment providers, community sensitization efforts to address stigma, and building medical infrastructure. Within building infrastructure, all participant types, except traditional healers, proposed the development of an epilepsy clinic designed to specifically treat epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS Based on these findings, there are four critical interventions that should be considered for improving epilepsy care in Uganda: the creation of dedicated epilepsy clinics, infrastructure strengthening to address medication stock-outs, community outreach programs for sensitization, and collaboration between biomedical providers and traditional healers. This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda".
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Malembaka EB, Karemere H, Bisimwa Balaluka G, Altare C, Odikro MA, Lwamushi SM, Nshobole RB, Macq J. Are people most in need utilising health facilities in post-conflict settings? A cross-sectional study from South Kivu, eastern DR Congo. Glob Health Action 2020; 13:1740419. [PMID: 32191159 PMCID: PMC7144215 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2020.1740419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The disruptive effect of protracted socio-political instability and conflict on the health systems is likely to exacerbate inequities in health service utilisation in conflict-recovering contexts.Objective: To examine whether the level of healthcare need is associated with health facility utilisation in post-conflict settings.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among adults with diabetes, hypertension, mothers of infants with acute malnutrition, informal caregivers (of participants with diabetes and hypertension) and helpers of mothers of children acutely malnourished, and randomly selected neighbours in South Kivu province, eastern DR Congo. Healthcare need levels were derived from a combination, summary and categorisation of the World Health Organisation Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0. Health facility utilisation was defined as having utilised in the first resort a health post, a health centre or a hospital as opposed to self-medication, traditional herbs or prayer homes during illness in the past 30 days. We used mixed-effects Poisson regression models with robust variance to identify the factors associated with health facility utilisation.Results: Overall, 82% (n = 413) of the participants (N = 504) utilised modern health facilities. Health facility utilisation likelihood was higher by 27% [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR): 1.27; 95% CI: 1.13-1.43; p < 0.001] and 18% (aPR: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.06-1.30; p = 0.002) among participants with middle and higher health needs, respectively, compared to those with low healthcare needs. Using the lowest health need cluster as a reference, participants in the middle healthcare need cluster tended to have a higher hospital utilisation level.Conclusion: Greater reported healthcare need was significantly associated with health facility utilisation. Primary healthcare facilities were the first resort for a vast majority of respondents. Improving the availability and quality of health service packages at the primary healthcare level is necessary to ensure the universal health coverage goal advocating quality health for all can be achieved in post-conflict settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Espoir Bwenge Malembaka
- Ecole Régionale de Santé Publique, ERSP, Faculté de Médecine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo.,Institute of Health and Society, IRSS, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hermès Karemere
- Ecole Régionale de Santé Publique, ERSP, Faculté de Médecine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Ghislain Bisimwa Balaluka
- Ecole Régionale de Santé Publique, ERSP, Faculté de Médecine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Chiara Altare
- Centre for Humanitarian Health, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Magdalene Akos Odikro
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (GFELTP), Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Samuel Makali Lwamushi
- Ecole Régionale de Santé Publique, ERSP, Faculté de Médecine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Rosine Bigirinama Nshobole
- Ecole Régionale de Santé Publique, ERSP, Faculté de Médecine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Jean Macq
- Institute of Health and Society, IRSS, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Vedanthan R, Kumar A, Kamano JH, Chang H, Raymond S, Too K, Tulienge D, Wambui C, Bagiella E, Fuster V, Kimaiyo S. Effect of Nurse-Based Management of Hypertension in Rural Western Kenya. Glob Heart 2020; 15:77. [PMID: 33299773 PMCID: PMC7716784 DOI: 10.5334/gh.856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Elevated blood pressure is the leading cause of death worldwide; however, treatment and control rates remain very low. An expanding literature supports the strategy of task redistribution of hypertension care to nurses. Objective We aimed to evaluate the effect of a nurse-based hypertension management program in Kenya. Methods We conducted a retrospective data analysis of patients with hypertension who initiated nurse-based hypertension management care between January 1, 2011, and October 31, 2013. The primary outcome measure was change in systolic blood pressure (SBP) over one year, analyzed using piecewise linear mixed-effect models with a cut point at 3 months. The primary comparison of interest was care provided by nurses versus clinical officers. Secondary outcomes were change in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) over one year, and blood pressure control analyzed using a zero-inflated Poisson model. Results The cohort consisted of 1051 adult patients (mean age 61 years; 65% women). SBP decreased significantly from baseline to three months (nurse-managed patients: slope -4.95 mmHg/month; clinical officer-managed patients: slope -5.28), with no significant difference between groups. DBP also significantly decreased from baseline to three months with no difference between provider groups. Retention in care at 12 months was 42%. Conclusions Nurse-managed hypertension care can significantly improve blood pressure. However, retention in care remains a challenge. If these results are reproduced in prospective trial settings with improvements in retention in care, this could be an effective strategy for hypertension care worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Vedanthan
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, US
| | - Anirudh Kumar
- Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, US
| | - Jemima H. Kamano
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, Eldoret, KE
- Chronic Disease Management, Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, KE
| | - Helena Chang
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, US
| | - Samantha Raymond
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, US
| | - Kenneth Too
- Chronic Disease Management, Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, KE
| | - Deborah Tulienge
- Chronic Disease Management, Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, KE
| | - Charity Wambui
- Chronic Disease Management, Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, KE
| | - Emilia Bagiella
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, US
| | - Valentin Fuster
- Mount Sinai Heart, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, US
| | - Sylvester Kimaiyo
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, Eldoret, KE
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Smit M, Perez-Guzman PN, Mutai KK, Cassidy R, Kibachio J, Kilonzo N, Hallett TB. Mapping the Current and Future Noncommunicable Disease Burden in Kenya by Human Immunodeficiency Virus Status: A Modeling Study. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 71:1864-1873. [PMID: 31734688 PMCID: PMC8240998 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz1103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The noncommunicable disease (NCD) burden in Kenya is not well characterized, despite estimates needed to identify future health priorities. We aimed to quantify current and future NCD burden in Kenya by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status. METHODS Original systematic reviews and meta-analyses of prevalence/incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic kidney disease, depression, diabetes, high total cholesterol, hypertension, human papillomavirus infection, and related precancerous stages in Kenya were carried out. An individual-based model was developed, simulating births, deaths, HIV disease and treatment, aforementioned NCDs, and cancers. The model was parameterized using systematic reviews and epidemiological national and regional surveillance data. NCD burden was quantified for 2018-2035 by HIV status among adults. RESULTS Systematic reviews identified prevalence/incidence data for each NCD except ischemic heart disease. The model estimates that 51% of Kenyan adults currently suffer from ≥1 NCD, with a higher burden in people living with HIV (PLWH) compared to persons not living with HIV (62% vs 51%), driven by their higher age profile and partly by HIV-related risk for NCDs. Hypertension and high total cholesterol are the main NCD drivers (adult prevalence of 20.5% [5.3 million] and 9.0% [2.3 million]), with CVD and cancers the main causes of death. The burden is projected to increase by 2035 (56% in persons not living with HIV; 71% in PLWH), with population growth doubling the number of people needing services (15.4 million to 28.1 million) by 2035. CONCLUSIONS NCD services will need to be expanded in Kenya. Guidelines in Kenya already support provision of these among both the general and populations living with HIV; however, coverage remains low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikaela Smit
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pablo N Perez-Guzman
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Rachel Cassidy
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Kibachio
- Division of Noncommunicable Diseases, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Timothy B Hallett
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Feringa MM, de Swardt HC, Havenga Y. Registered nurses' knowledge, attitude and practice regarding their scope of practice in Botswana. Health SA 2020; 25:1415. [PMID: 33240532 PMCID: PMC7669984 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v25i0.1415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The articulation of the scope of practice in nursing is important to provide boundaries for registered nurses in which to practice. Registered nurses in Botswana have frequently experienced challenges and raised concerns with their scope of practice. Research related to registered nurses' knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding their scope of practice appears to be limited in the African context, particularly in Botswana. AIM The aim of this study was to develop guidelines for professional nurses to explore and describe registered nurses' knowledge, attitude and practice regarding their scope of practice in Botswana. METHODS A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was employed using a three-tier sampling approach to ensure a representative sample of various settings, health facilities and nurses. For the purpose of this article, the data from the qualitative component are reported. Thirty registered nurses, working in the public health sector in Botswana, participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. FINDINGS Data analysis revealed that registered nurses' scope of their knowledge was lacking. Registered nurses' attitudes were reflected in the adaptation process to expanded practice, as demonstrated through emotive aspects, adjustments to practice beyond scope and the learning of new skills considered beyond scope. Participants reported implementing many skills deemed beyond their scope, whilst their motive to do so included their experience of a lack of control over practice, lack of resources or they were doing so out of consideration for the patient. Guidance in terms of their scope was found to be inadequate. CONCLUSION As in other resource-limited countries in Africa, registered nurses in Botswana experience challenges with their scope of practice. Inadequate boundaries may result in compromised nursing care and may have detrimental consequences for both the patient and the nurse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria M. Feringa
- Adelaide Tambo School of Nursing Science, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Hester C. de Swardt
- Adelaide Tambo School of Nursing Science, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yolanda Havenga
- Adelaide Tambo School of Nursing Science, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
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Van Hout MC, Bachmann M, Lazarus JV, Shayo EH, Bukenya D, Picchio CA, Nyirenda M, Mfinanga SG, Birungi J, Okebe J, Jaffar S. Strengthening integration of chronic care in Africa: protocol for the qualitative process evaluation of integrated HIV, diabetes and hypertension care in a cluster randomised controlled trial in Tanzania and Uganda. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e039237. [PMID: 33033029 PMCID: PMC7542920 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-039237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In sub-Saharan Africa, the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension, has increased rapidly in recent years, although HIV infection remains a leading cause of death among young-middle-aged adults. Health service coverage for NCDs remains very low in contrast to HIV, despite the increasing prevalence of comorbidity of NCDs with HIV. There is an urgent need to expand healthcare capacity to provide integrated services to address these chronic conditions. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This protocol describes procedures for a qualitative process evaluation of INTE-AFRICA, a cluster randomised trial comparing integrated health service provision for HIV infection, DM and hypertension, to the current stand-alone vertical care. Interviews, focus group discussions and observations of consultations and other care processes in two clinics (in Tanzania, Uganda) will be used to explore the experiences of stakeholders. These stakeholders will include health service users, policy-makers, healthcare providers, community leaders and members, researchers, non-governmental and international organisations. The exploration will be carried out during the implementation of the project, alongside an understanding of the impact of broader structural and contextual factors. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval was granted by the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (UK), the National Institute of Medical Research (Tanzania) and TASO Research Ethics Committee (Uganda) in 2020. The evaluation will provide the opportunity to document the implementation of integration over several timepoints (6, 12 and 18 months) and refine integrated service provision prior to scale up. This synergistic approach to evaluate, understand and respond will support service integration and inform monitoring, policy and practice development efforts to involve and educate communities in Tanzania and Uganda. It will create a model of care and a platform of good practices and lessons learnt for other countries implementing integrated and decentralised community health services. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN43896688; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claire Van Hout
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, Merseyside, UK
| | - Max Bachmann
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwich, UK
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
| | - Elizabeth Henry Shayo
- Muhimbili Centre, National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Dominic Bukenya
- MRC/UVRI/LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council Uganda, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Camila A Picchio
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
| | - Moffat Nyirenda
- MRC/UVRI/LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council Uganda, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Sayoki Godfrey Mfinanga
- Muhimbili Centre, National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Josephine Birungi
- MRC/UVRI/LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Medical Research Council Uganda, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph Okebe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Shabbar Jaffar
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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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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Adler AJ, Laar AK, Kotoh AM, Legido-Quigley H, Perel P, Lamptey P, Lange IL. Barriers and facilitators to the implementation of a community-based hypertension improvement project in Ghana: a qualitative study of ComHIP. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:67. [PMID: 32000777 PMCID: PMC6993321 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4774-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, hypertension is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease and mortality, with the majority of deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Because the burden of hypertension is increasing in low resource settings with restricted infrastructure, it is imperative that new models for hypertension care are realised. One such model is the Community-based Hypertension Improvement Project (ComHIP) which employs a community-based method of task-shifting for managing hypertension. This study is a qualitative analysis of the barriers and facilitators of the main components of ComHIP. METHODS We purposively selected 55 informants for semi-structured interviews or focus group discussions, which were carried out bythree trained local researchers in Krobo, Twi or English. Informants included patients enrolled in ComHIP, health care providers and Licensed Chemical Sellers trained by ComHIP, and Ghana Health Service employees. Data were analysed using a multi-step thematic analysis. RESULTS While results of the effectiveness of the intervention are pending, overall, patients and nurses reported positive experiences within ComHIP, and found that it helped enable them to manage their hypertension. Healthcare providers appreciated the additional training, but had some gaps in their knowledge. Ghana Health Service employees were cautiously optimistic about the programme, but expressed some worries about the sustainability of the programme. Many informants expressed concerns over the inability of community nurses and workers to dispense anti-hypertensives, due to legal restrictions. CONCLUSIONS The WHO recommends task-sharing as a technique for managing chronic conditions such as hypertension in resource constrained settings. ComHIP presents an example of a task-sharing programme with a high level of acceptability to all participants. Going forward, we recommend greater levels of communication and dialogue to allow community-based health workers to be allowed to dispense anti-hypertensives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alma J. Adler
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School Boston, Boston, MA USA
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT UK
| | - Amos K. Laar
- Department of Population, Family, & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, LG 13, Legon, Accra Ghana
| | - Agnes M. Kotoh
- Department of Population, Family, & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, LG 13, Legon, Accra Ghana
| | - Helena Legido-Quigley
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT UK
| | - Pablo Perel
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT UK
| | - Peter Lamptey
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT UK
- FHI360, Washington DC, WA USA
| | - Isabelle L. Lange
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT UK
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Correia JC, Lachat S, Lagger G, Chappuis F, Golay A, Beran D. Interventions targeting hypertension and diabetes mellitus at community and primary healthcare level in low- and middle-income countries:a scoping review. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1542. [PMID: 31752801 PMCID: PMC6873661 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7842-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are highly prevalent in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Recent evidence on effectiveness of primary care interventions has attracted renewed calls for their implementation. This review aims to synthesize evidence pertaining to primary care interventions on these two diseases, evaluated and tested in LMICs. METHODS Two reviewers conducted an electronic search of three databases (Pubmed, EMBASE and Web of Science) and screened for eligible articles. Interventions covering health promotion, prevention, treatment, or rehabilitation activities at the PHC or community level were included. Studies published in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish, from January 2007 to January 2017, were included. Key extraction variables included the 12 criteria identified by the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist and guide. The Innovative Care for Chronic Conditions Framework (ICCCF) was used to guide analysis and reporting of results. RESULTS 198 articles were analyzed. The strategies focused on healthcare service organization (76.5%), community level (9.7 %), creating a positive policy environment (3.6%) and strategies covering multiple domains (10.2%). Studies included related to the following topics: description or testing of interventions (n=81; 41.3%), implementation or evaluation projects (n=42; 21.4%), quality improvement initiatives (n=15; 7.7%), screening and prevention efforts (n=26; 13.2%), management of HTN or DM (n=13; 6.6%), integrated health services (n=10; 5.1%), knowledge and attitude surveys (n=5; 2.5%), cost-effective lab tests (n=2; 1%) and policy making efforts (n=2; 1%). Most studies reported interventions by non-specialists (n=86; 43.4%) and multidisciplinary teams (n=49; 25.5%). CONCLUSION Only 198 articles were found over a 10 year period which demonstrates the limited published research on highly prevalent diseases in LMIC. This review shows the variety and complexity of approaches that have been tested to address HTN and DM in LMICs and highlights the elements of interventions needed to be addressed in order to strengthen delivery of care. Most studies reported little information regarding implementation processes to allow replication. Given the need for multi-component complex interventions, study designs and evaluation techniques will need to be adapted by including process evaluations versus simply effectiveness or outcome evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge César Correia
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Department of Community Medicine, Primary and Emergency Care, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Lachat
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Department of Community Medicine, Primary and Emergency Care, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Grégoire Lagger
- Division of Therapeutic Patient Education for Chronic Diseases. Department of Community Medicine, Primary and Emergency Care, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - François Chappuis
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Department of Community Medicine, Primary and Emergency Care, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alain Golay
- Division of Therapeutic Patient Education for Chronic Diseases. Department of Community Medicine, Primary and Emergency Care, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David Beran
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Department of Community Medicine, Primary and Emergency Care, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
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Laar AK, Adler AJ, Kotoh AM, Legido-Quigley H, Lange IL, Perel P, Lamptey P. Health system challenges to hypertension and related non-communicable diseases prevention and treatment: perspectives from Ghanaian stakeholders. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:693. [PMID: 31615529 PMCID: PMC6792211 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4571-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension, itself a cardiovascular condition, is a significant risk factor for other cardiovascular diseases. Hypertension is recognized as a major public health challenge in Ghana. Beginning in 2014, a collaborative team launched the community-based hypertension improvement program (ComHIP) in one health district in Ghana. The ComHIP project, a public-private partnership, tests a community-based model that engages the private sector and utilizes information and communication technology (ICT) to control hypertension. This paper, focuses on the various challenges associated with managing hypertension in Ghana, as reported by ComHIP stakeholders. METHODS A total of 55 informants - comprising patients, health care professionals, licensed chemical sellers (LCS), national and sub-national policymakers - were purposively selected for interview and focus group discussions (FGDs). Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Where applicable, transcriptions were translated directly from local language to English. The data were then analysed using two-step thematic analysis. The protocol was approved by the two ethics review committees based in Ghana and the third, based in the United Kingdom. All participants were interviewed after giving informed consent. RESULTS Our data have implications for the on-going implementation of ComHIP, especially the importance of policy maker buy-in, and the benefits, as well as drawbacks, of the program to different stakeholders. While our data show that the ComHIP initiative is acceptable to patients and healthcare providers - increasing providers' knowledge on hypertension and patients' awareness of same- there were implementation challenges identified by both patients and providers. Policy level challenges relate to task-sharing bottlenecks, which precluded nurses from prescribing or dispensing antihypertensives, and LCS from stocking same. Medication adherence and the phenomenon of medical pluralism in Ghana were identified challenges. The perspectives from the national level stakeholders enable elucidation of whole of health system challenges to ComHIP and similarly designed programmes. CONCLUSIONS This paper sheds important light on the patient/individual, and system level challenges to hypertension and related non-communicable disease prevention and treatment in Ghana. The data show that although the ComHIP initiative is acceptable to patients and healthcare providers, policy level task-sharing bottlenecks preclude optimal implementation of ComHIP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos K Laar
- Department of Population, Family, & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, LG 13, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Alma J Adler
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Agnes M Kotoh
- Department of Population, Family, & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, LG 13, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Helena Legido-Quigley
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.,Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, Pulau Ujong, Singapore
| | - Isabelle L Lange
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Pablo Perel
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Peter Lamptey
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.,Family Health International 360, DC, Washington, WA, USA
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Jain M, Pandian J, Samuel C, Singh S, Kamra D, Kate M. Multicomponent Short-Term Training of ASHAs for Stroke Risk Factor Management in Rural India. J Neurosci Rural Pract 2019; 10:592-598. [PMID: 31844374 PMCID: PMC6908455 DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-3399396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability-adjusted life years and may be the leading cause of death in rural regions in India. We aim to train the ASHAs (Accredited Social Health activist) for nonpharmacological management of risk factors for secondary stroke prevention in rural India. We tested the hypothesis that focused, multicomponent, short-term training on secondary prevention of stroke enhances the knowledge of ASHAs about risk factor management. Objectives To test the hypothesis that focused, multicomponent, short-term training on secondary prevention of stroke enhances the knowledge of ASHAs about risk factor management. Materials and Methods This study is part of the ASSIST trial (Training ASHA to Assist in Secondary Stroke Prevention in Rural Population). The study design is quasi-experimental (pretest and posttest). Culturally appropriate and pragmatic training material was developed by the study team. Three focused group training sessions were conducted in Sidhwan Bet and Pakhowal blocks of Ludhiana district, Punjab. Results A total of 274 ASHAs from 164 villages with mean ± SD age of 39.5 ± 7.6 years participated in the three training sessions. The perceived knowledge of stroke risk factors and blood pressure assessment was 67.5 ± 18.3% and 84.4 ± 16.7%, respectively. The objective baseline knowledge about stroke prevention and management among ASHAs was lower 58.7 ± 19.7% compared with perceived knowledge ( p = 0.04). This increased to 82.5 ± 16.36% ( p < 0.001) after the mop-up training after a mean of 191 days. More than 30% increment was seen in knowledge about the stroke symptoms (35.9%, p < 0.001), avoiding opium after stroke for treatment (39.5%, p < 0.001), causes of stroke (53.3%, p < 0.001), modifiable risk factors for stroke (45.4%, p < 0.001), and lifestyle modifications for stroke prevention (42.1%, p < 0.001). Conclusions Focused group training can help enhance the knowledge of ASHAs about stroke prevention and management. ASHAs are also able to retain this complex multicomponent knowledge over a 6-month period. ASHA may be able to partake in reducing the secondary stroke burden in rural India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maneeta Jain
- Department of Neurology, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Jeyaraj Pandian
- Department of Neurology, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Clarence Samuel
- Department of Community Medicine, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Shavinder Singh
- Department of Community Medicine, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Deepshikha Kamra
- Department of Community Medicine, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Mahesh Kate
- Department of Neurology, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
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Samia P, Hassell J, Hudson JA, Murithi MK, Kariuki SM, Newton CR, Wilmshurst JM. Epilepsy diagnosis and management of children in Kenya: review of current literature. Res Rep Trop Med 2019; 10:91-102. [PMID: 31388319 PMCID: PMC6607977 DOI: 10.2147/rrtm.s201159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The growing impact of non-communicable diseases in low- to middle-income countries makes epilepsy a key research priority. We evaluated peer-reviewed published literature on childhood epilepsy specific to Kenya to identify knowledge gaps and inform future priorities. Methodology: A literature search utilizing the terms "epilepsy" OR "seizure" as exploded subject headings AND "Kenya" was conducted. Relevant databases were searched, generating 908 articles. After initial screening to remove duplications, irrelevant articles, and publications older than 15 years, 154 papers remained for full-article review, which identified 35 publications containing relevant information. Data were extracted from these reports on epidemiology, etiology, clinical features, management, and outcomes. Results: The estimated prevalence of lifetime epilepsy in children was 21-41 per 1,000, while the incidence of active convulsive epilepsy was 39-187 cases per 100,000 children per year. The incidence of acute seizures was 312-879 per 100,000 children per year and neonatal seizures 3,950 per 100,000 live births per year. Common risk factors for both epilepsy and acute seizures included adverse perinatal events, meningitis, malaria, febrile seizures, and family history of epilepsy. Electroencephalography abnormalities were documented in 20%-41% and neurocognitive comorbidities in more than half. Mortality in children admitted with acute seizures was 3%-6%, and neurological sequelae were identified in 31% following convulsive status epilepticus. Only 7%-29% children with epilepsy were on antiseizure medication. Conclusion: Active convulsive epilepsy is a common condition among Kenyan children, remains largely untreated, and leads to extremely poor outcomes. The high proportion of epilepsy attributable to preventable causes, in particular neonatal morbidity, contributes significantly to the lifetime burden of the condition. This review reaffirms the ongoing need for better public awareness of epilepsy as a treatable disease and for national-level action that targets both prevention and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Samia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jane Hassell
- Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, Child development Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Symon M Kariuki
- Kemri–Wellcome Trust Collaborative Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Charles R Newton
- Kemri–Wellcome Trust Collaborative Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Jo M Wilmshurst
- Division of Paediatric Neurology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
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Aliyu MH, Abdullahi AT, Iliyasu Z, Salihu AS, Adamu H, Sabo U, Garcia JP, Abdullahi SU, Mande A, Xian H, Yakasai HM, Schootman M, Ingles DJ, Patel AA, Yakasai A, Curry-Johnson S, Wudil UJ, DeBaun MR, Trevathan E. Bridging the childhood epilepsy treatment gap in northern Nigeria (BRIDGE): Rationale and design of pre-clinical trial studies. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2019; 15:100362. [PMID: 31049462 PMCID: PMC6484289 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2019.100362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is the most common serious childhood neurological disorder. In the low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) of Africa, children with epilepsy suffer increased morbidity and mortality compared to their counterparts in high-income countries, and the majority do not receive treatment - the childhood epilepsy treatment gap. Reports of the childhood epilepsy treatment gap in Africa are likely underestimates; most surveys do not include several common childhood seizure types, including most types of non-convulsive epilepsy. Efforts to scale up childhood epilepsy care services in the LMICs of Africa must contend with a shortage of physicians and diagnostic technology [e.g., electroencephalograms (EEGs)]. One pragmatic solution is to integrate epilepsy care into primary care by task-shifting to community health extension workers. The aims of this project (BRIDGE) are to: 1) train, develop, and pilot task-shifted epilepsy care teams; 2) develop and pilot innovative childhood epilepsy screening and diagnostic paradigms adapted to the local Hausa language/culture in Kano, northern Nigeria; and, 3) quantify and map the childhood epilepsy treatment gap, using geographic information systems (GIS), to target limited resources to areas of greatest need. Task-shifted teams will diagnose and manage childhood epilepsy using an innovative epilepsy screening tools and diagnostic and management paradigms in environments with limited EEG access. If validated and demonstrated efficacious in clinical trials, this project can be taken to scale across broader areas of west Africa's LMICs that share language and culture. BRIDGE has the potential to enhance access to basic childhood epilepsy care and establish the foundation for childhood epilepsy clinical trials in west Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muktar H Aliyu
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Aminu T Abdullahi
- Department of Psychiatry, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital & Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Zubairu Iliyasu
- Department of Community Medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital & Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Auwal S Salihu
- Department of Psychiatry, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital & Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Halima Adamu
- Department of Pediatrics, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital & Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Umar Sabo
- Department of Pediatrics, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital & Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Juanita Prieto Garcia
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Shehu U Abdullahi
- Department of Pediatrics, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital & Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Aliyu Mande
- Department of Community Medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital & Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Hong Xian
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Hafizu M Yakasai
- Centre for Nigerian Languages and Folklore, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Mario Schootman
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Donna J Ingles
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Archana A Patel
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Abubakar Yakasai
- Department of Psychiatry, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital & Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Stacy Curry-Johnson
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Eskind Biomedical Library, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Usman J Wudil
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Michael R DeBaun
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Edwin Trevathan
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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Tripathy JP, Kumar AM, Guillerm N, Berger SD, Bissell K, Reid A, Zachariah R, Ramsay A, Harries AD. Does the Structured Operational Research and Training Initiative (SORT IT) continue to influence health policy and/or practice? Glob Health Action 2018; 11:1500762. [PMID: 30080987 PMCID: PMC6084496 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2018.1500762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The Structured Operational Research and Training Initiative (SORT IT) is a successful model of integrated operational research and capacity building with about 90% of participants completing the training and publishing in scientific journals. Objective: The study aims at assessing the influence of research papers from six SORT IT courses conducted between April 2014 and January 2015 on policy and/or practice. Methods: This was a cross-sectional mixed-method study involving e-mail based, self-administered questionnaires sent to course participants coupled with telephone/Skype/in-person responses from participants, senior facilitators and local co-authors of course papers. A descriptive content analysis was performed to generate themes. Results: Of 71 participants, 67 (94%) completed the course. A total of 67 papers (original research) were submitted for publication, of which 61 (91%) were published or were in press at the censor date (31 December 2016). Among the 67 eligible participants, 65 (97%) responded to the questionnaire. Of the latter, 43 (66%) research papers were self-reported to have contributed to a change in policy and/or practice by the course participants: 38 to a change in government policy or practice (26 at the national level, six at the subnational level and six at the local/hospital level); four to a change in organisational policy or practice; and one study fostered global policy development. Conclusion: Nearly two-thirds of SORT IT course papers contributed to a change in policy and/or practice as reported by the participants. Identifying the actual linkage of research to policy/practice change requires more robust methodology, in-depth assessment and independent validation of the reported change with all concerned stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Prasad Tripathy
- a International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease , South-East Asia Office , New Delhi , India.,b International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease , Paris , France
| | - Ajay Mv Kumar
- a International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease , South-East Asia Office , New Delhi , India.,b International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease , Paris , France
| | - Nathalie Guillerm
- b International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease , Paris , France
| | - Selma Dar Berger
- b International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease , Paris , France
| | - Karen Bissell
- b International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease , Paris , France
| | - Anthony Reid
- c Médecins Sans Frontières, Medical Department , Operational Centre Brussels , Luxembourg
| | - Rony Zachariah
- c Médecins Sans Frontières, Medical Department , Operational Centre Brussels , Luxembourg
| | - Andrew Ramsay
- d Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases , World Health Organization , Geneva , Switzerland.,e School of Medicine , University of St Andrews , Fife , UK
| | - Anthony D Harries
- b International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease , Paris , France.,f London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK
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Elliott JA, Das D, Cavailler P, Schneider F, Shah M, Ravaud A, Lightowler M, Boulle P. A cross-sectional assessment of diabetes self-management, education and support needs of Syrian refugee patients living with diabetes in Bekaa Valley Lebanon. Confl Health 2018; 12:40. [PMID: 30214472 PMCID: PMC6134700 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-018-0174-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with diabetes require knowledge and skills to self-manage their disease, a challenging aspect of treatment that is difficult to address in humanitarian settings. Due to the lack of literature and experience regarding diabetes self-management, education and support (DSMES) in refugee populations, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) undertook a DSMES survey in a cohort of diabetes patients seen in their primary health care program in Lebanon. METHODS Structured interviews were conducted with diabetes patients in three primary care clinics between January and February 2015. Scores (0-10) were calculated to measure diabetes core knowledge in each patient (the DSMES score). Awareness of long-term complications and educational preferences were also assessed. Analyses were conducted using Stata software, version 14.1 (StataCorp). Simple and multiple linear regression models were used to determine associations between various patient factors and the DSMES Score. RESULTS A total of 292 patients were surveyed. Of these, 92% had type 2 diabetes and most (70%) had been diagnosed prior to the Syrian conflict. The mean DSMES score was 6/10. Having secondary education, previous diabetes education, a 'diabetes confidant', and insulin use were each associated with a higher DSMES Score. Lower scores were significantly more likely to be seen in participants with increasing age and in patients who were diagnosed during the Syrian conflict. Long-term complications of diabetes most commonly known by patients were vision related complications (68% of patients), foot ulcers (39%), and kidney failure (38%). When asked about the previous Ramadan, 56% of patients stated that they undertook a full fast, including patients with type 1 diabetes. Individual and group lessons were preferred by more patients than written, SMS, telephone or internet-based educational delivery models. CONCLUSIONS DSMES should be patient and context appropriate. The variety and complexities of humanitarian settings provide particular challenges to its appropriate provision. Understanding patient baseline DSMES levels and needs provides a useful basis for humanitarian organizations seeking to provide diabetes care.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A. Elliott
- Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders Canada, 551 Adelaide St W, Toronto, ON M5V 0N8 Canada
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Rue de Lausanne 78, Geneva, 1202 Switzerland
- Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- T1International, Cheltenham, UK
| | - Debashish Das
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Rue de Lausanne 78, Geneva, 1202 Switzerland
| | | | - Fabien Schneider
- Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders Canada, 551 Adelaide St W, Toronto, ON M5V 0N8 Canada
| | - Maya Shah
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Rue de Lausanne 78, Geneva, 1202 Switzerland
| | - Annette Ravaud
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Rue de Lausanne 78, Geneva, 1202 Switzerland
| | - Maria Lightowler
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Rue de Lausanne 78, Geneva, 1202 Switzerland
| | - Philippa Boulle
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Rue de Lausanne 78, Geneva, 1202 Switzerland
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Strengthening the health workforce to support integration of HIV and noncommunicable disease services in sub-Saharan Africa. AIDS 2018; 32 Suppl 1:S47-S54. [PMID: 29952790 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The successful expansion of HIV services in sub-Saharan Africa has been a signature achievement of global public health. This article explores health workforce-related lessons from HIV scale-up, their implications for integrating noncommunicable disease (NCD) services into HIV programs, ways to ensure that healthcare workers have the knowledge, skills, resources, and enabling environment they need to provide comprehensive integrated HIV/NCD services, and discussion of a priority research agenda. DESIGN AND METHODS We conducted a scoping review of the published and 'gray' literature and drew upon our cumulative experience designing, implementing and evaluating HIV and NCD programs in low-resource settings. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Lessons learned from HIV programs include the role of task shifting and the optimal use of multidisciplinary teams. A responsible and adaptable policy environment is also imperative; norms and regulations must keep pace with the growing evidence base for task sharing, and early engagement of regulatory authorities will be needed for successful HIV/NCD integration. Ex-ante consideration of work culture will also be vital, given its impact on the quality of service delivery. Finally, capacity building of a robust interdisciplinary workforce is essential to foster integrated patient-centered care. To succeed, close collaboration between the health and higher education sectors is needed and comprehensive competency-based capacity building plans for various health worker cadres along the education and training continuum are required. We also outline research priorities for HIV/NCD integration in three key domains: governance and policy; education, training, and management; and service delivery.
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Spies LA, Bader SG, Opollo JG, Gray J. Nurse-Led Interventions for Hypertension: A Scoping Review With Implications for Evidence-Based Practice. Worldviews Evid Based Nurs 2018; 15:247-256. [DOI: 10.1111/wvn.12297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lori A. Spies
- Assistant Professor, Baylor University; Louise Herrington School of Nursing; Dallas TX USA
| | - Susan Gerding Bader
- Medical Librarian, Baylor University; Louise Herrington School of Nursing; Dallas TX USA
| | - Jackline G. Opollo
- Director, Professional Practice & Nursing Research; Parkland Health and Hospital Systems; Dallas TX USA
| | - Jennifer Gray
- Associate Dean, College of Natural and Health Sciences; Oklahoma Christian University; Edmond OK USA
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Nuche-Berenguer B, Kupfer LE. Readiness of Sub-Saharan Africa Healthcare Systems for the New Pandemic, Diabetes: A Systematic Review. J Diabetes Res 2018; 2018:9262395. [PMID: 29670916 PMCID: PMC5835275 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9262395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Effective health systems are needed to care for the coming surge of diabetics in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Objective We conducted a systematic review of literature to determine the capacity of SSA health systems to manage diabetes. Methodology We used three different databases (Embase, Scopus, and PubMed) to search for studies, published from 2004 to 2017, on diabetes care in SSA. Results Fifty-five articles met the inclusion criteria, covering the different aspects related to diabetes care such as availability of drugs and diagnostic tools, the capacity of healthcare workers, and the integration of diabetes care into HIV and TB platforms. Conclusion Although chronic care health systems in SSA have developed significantly in the last decade, the capacity for managing diabetes remains in its infancy. We identified pilot projects to enhance these capacities. The scale-up of these pilot interventions and the integration of diabetes care into existing robust chronic disease platforms may be a feasible approach to begin to tackle the upcoming pandemic in diabetes. Nonetheless, much more work needs to be done to address the health system-wide deficiencies in diabetes care. More research is also needed to determine how to integrate diabetes care into the healthcare system in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo Nuche-Berenguer
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1804, USA
| | - Linda E. Kupfer
- Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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What is the impact of professional nursing on patients’ outcomes globally? An overview of research evidence. Int J Nurs Stud 2018; 78:76-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2017.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Ndayisaba A, Harerimana E, Borg R, Miller AC, Kirk CM, Hann K, Hirschhorn LR, Manzi A, Ngoga G, Dusabeyezu S, Mutumbira C, Mpunga T, Ngamije P, Nkikabahizi F, Mubiligi J, Niyonsenga SP, Bavuma C, Park PH. A Clinical Mentorship and Quality Improvement Program to Support Health Center Nurses Manage Type 2 Diabetes in Rural Rwanda. J Diabetes Res 2017; 2017:2657820. [PMID: 29362719 PMCID: PMC5738565 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2657820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is rapidly rising in SSA. Interventions are needed to support the decentralization of services to improve and expand access to care. We describe a clinical mentorship and quality improvement program that connected nurse mentors with nurse mentees to support the decentralization of type 2 diabetes care in rural Rwanda. METHODS This is a descriptive study. Routinely collected data from patients with type 2 diabetes cared for at rural health center NCD clinics between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2015, were extracted from EMR system. Data collected as part of the clinical mentorship program were extracted from an electronic database. Summary statistics are reported. RESULTS The patient population reflects the rural settings, with low rates of traditional NCD risk factors: 5.6% of patients were current smokers, 11.0% were current consumers of alcohol, and 11.9% were obese. Of 263 observed nurse mentee-patient encounters, mentor and mentee agreed on diagnosis 94.4% of the time. Similarly, agreement levels were high for medication, laboratory exam, and follow-up plans, at 86.3%, 87.1%, and 92.4%, respectively. CONCLUSION Nurses that receive mentorship can adhere to a type 2 diabetes treatment protocol in rural Rwanda primary health care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ryan Borg
- Partners in Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gedeon Ngoga
- Partners in Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Joel Mubiligi
- Partners in Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Charlotte Bavuma
- Ministry of Health, Kigali, Rwanda
- University of Rwanda College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Paul H. Park
- Partners in Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima, Kigali, Rwanda
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Task shifting to clinical officer-led echocardiography screening for detecting rheumatic heart disease in Malawi, Africa. Cardiol Young 2017; 27:1133-1139. [PMID: 27989261 DOI: 10.1017/s1047951116002511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Echocardiographic screening for rheumatic heart disease in asymptomatic children may result in early diagnosis and prevent progression. Physician-led screening is not feasible in Malawi. Task shifting to mid-level providers such as clinical officers may enable more widespread screening. Hypothesis With short-course training, clinical officers can accurately screen for rheumatic heart disease using focussed echocardiography. METHODS A total of eight clinical officers completed three half-days of didactics and 2 days of hands-on echocardiography training. Clinical officers were evaluated by performing screening echocardiograms on 20 children with known rheumatic heart disease status. They indicated whether children should be referred for follow-up. Referral was indicated if mitral regurgitation measured more than 1.5 cm or there was any measurable aortic regurgitation. The κ statistic was calculated to measure referral agreement with a paediatric cardiologist. Sensitivity and specificity were estimated using a generalised linear mixed model, and were calculated on the basis of World Heart Federation diagnostic criteria. RESULTS The mean κ statistic comparing clinical officer referrals with the paediatric cardiologist was 0.72 (95% confidence interval: 0.62, 0.82). The κ value ranged from a minimum of 0.57 to a maximum of 0.90. For rheumatic heart disease diagnosis, sensitivity was 0.91 (95% confidence interval: 0.86, 0.95) and specificity was 0.65 (95% confidence interval: 0.57, 0.72). CONCLUSION There was substantial agreement between clinical officers and paediatric cardiologists on whether to refer. Clinical officers had a high sensitivity in detecting rheumatic heart disease. With short-course training, clinical officer-led echo screening for rheumatic heart disease is a viable alternative to physician-led screening in resource-limited settings.
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Hamdani SU, Ahmed Z, Sijbrandij M, Nazir H, Masood A, Akhtar P, Amin H, Bryant RA, Dawson K, van Ommeren M, Rahman A, Minhas FA. Problem Management Plus (PM+) in the management of common mental disorders in a specialized mental healthcare facility in Pakistan; study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Int J Ment Health Syst 2017; 11:40. [PMID: 28603552 PMCID: PMC5465445 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-017-0147-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed Problem Management Plus (PM+), a 5-session, psychological intervention program delivered by trained non-specialist that addresses common mental disorders. The objectives of this study are to evaluate effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of PM+ in a specialized mental health care facility in Pakistan. Methods A single blind individual randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be carried out in the outpatient department of a specialized mental healthcare facility in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. After informed consent, patients with high psychological distress (General Health Questionnaire-12 (score >2) and functional impairment (WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 score >16) will be randomised to PM+ plus treatment as usual (n = 96) or TAU only (n = 96). The primary outcome is the psychological distress, measured by levels of anxiety and depression on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and improvement in functioning as measured by WHODAS at 20 weeks after baseline. Secondary outcomes include improvement in symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, levels of social support and cost effectiveness evaluation. Qualitative interviews will be conducted to evaluate the process of implementing PM+ including barriers and facilitators in implementation and possibility of integration of PM+ program in specialized mental health care facilities in Pakistan. Discussion The results of this study will be helpful in evaluating the effectiveness of the approach of training non specialists, based in the specialized mental health care facilities in delivering evidence based psychological interventions in the low resource settings. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12616000381482. Registered Retrospectively on March 23, 2016 Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13033-017-0147-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Usman Hamdani
- Institute of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Training, Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Zainab Ahmed
- Human Development Research Foundation, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical Psychology, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huma Nazir
- Human Development Research Foundation, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Aqsa Masood
- Human Development Research Foundation, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Parveen Akhtar
- Human Development Research Foundation, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Hania Amin
- Institute of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Training, Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katie Dawson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark van Ommeren
- World Health Organization (WHO), Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Fareed Aslam Minhas
- Institute of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Training, Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
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van Crevel R, van de Vijver S, Moore DAJ. The global diabetes epidemic: what does it mean for infectious diseases in tropical countries? Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2017; 5:457-468. [PMID: 27499355 PMCID: PMC7104099 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(16)30081-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Revised: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Tropical countries are experiencing a substantial rise in type 2 diabetes, which is often undiagnosed or poorly controlled. Since diabetes is a risk factor for many infectious diseases, this increase probably adds to the large infectious disease burden in tropical countries. We reviewed the literature to investigate the interface between diabetes and infections in tropical countries, including the WHO-defined neglected tropical diseases. Although solid data are sparse, patients with diabetes living in tropical countries most likely face increased risks of common and health-care-associated infections, as well as infected foot ulcers, which often lead to amputation. There is strong evidence that diabetes increases the severity of some endemic infections such as tuberculosis, melioidosis, and dengue virus infection. Some HIV and antiparasitic drugs might induce diabetes, whereas helminth infections appear to afford some protection against future diabetes. But there are no or very scarce data for most tropical infections and for possible biological mechanisms underlying associations with diabetes. The rise in diabetes and other non-communicable diseases puts a heavy toll on health systems in tropical countries. On the other hand, complications common to both diabetes and some tropical infections might provide an opportunity for shared services-for example, for eye health (trachoma and onchocerciasis), ulcer care (leprosy), or renal support (schistosomiasis). More research about the interaction of diabetes and infections in tropical countries is needed, and the infectious disease burden in these countries is another reason to step up global efforts to improve prevention and care for diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinout van Crevel
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands.
| | - Steven van de Vijver
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - David A J Moore
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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