1
|
Chen W, Xu W, Chen Y, Xu C, Zheng J, Zou Y, Zhou B. Job satisfaction and turnover of the first group of rural-oriented tuition-waived medical students in Guangxi, China: a mixed-method study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:237. [PMID: 38965480 PMCID: PMC11225299 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02486-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2010, China launched a rural-oriented tuition-waived medical education (RTME) programme to train more general practitioners (GPs) to meet the needs of the rural health workforce. Motivating and maintaining GPs is an important consideration for the shortage in the rural health workforce. This study aimed to investigate job satisfaction and turnover among the first group of rural-oriented tuition-waived medical students (RTMSs) who had completed a three-year compulsory service in Guangxi, as well as the factors affecting RTMSs turnover. METHODS This study adopted a mixed-method approach. A quantitative survey of 129 RTMSs was analysed (81.6% response rate), and qualitative interviews were conducted with 30 stakeholders, including 18 RTMSs, six administrators of the County Health Bureau, and six administrators of township health centers (THCs). A t-test, chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and logistic regression analysis were used to examine the quantitative data, and thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. RESULTS Among the 129 participants, the turnover rate was high, with 103 RTMSs reporting turnover (79.84%). Interpersonal relationships scored the highest in job satisfaction (3.63 ± 0.64) among RTMSs, while working conditions were rated the lowest (2.61 ± 0.85). Marital status (odds ratio [OR] = 0.236, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] = 0.059-0.953, P = 0.043), only child status (OR = 8.660, 95%CI = 1.714-43.762, P = 0.009), and job return satisfaction (OR = 0.290, 95%CI = 0.090-0.942, P = 0.039) were significantly associated with turnover. Univariate analyses showed that income had a significant influence on turnover, but the relationship gone by multivariable; however it was deemed important in the qualitative study. Qualitative analysis revealed that turnover was influenced by the working atmosphere, effort-reward imbalance, professional competence, and opportunities for training and promotion. CONCLUSIONS This study provides insights for the policymakers about the priority areas for retaining GPs in rural locations and provides reference values for the retention of GPs in other regions with a shortage of rural health workers. For RTMSs to continue providing services to rural areas, the government should improve their salaries, balance their income and workload, provide more opportunities for training and career promotion, and managers should recognise their efforts and create an optimistic working atmosphere.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenxu Chen
- School of Information and Management, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, 530021, China
| | - Wenjia Xu
- Liuzhou People's Hospital, Liuzhou, Guang xi, 545000, China
| | - Yanhua Chen
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Chengying Xu
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, China
| | - Jiahui Zheng
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, China
| | - Yunfeng Zou
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- School of Information and Management, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, 530021, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dahal U, Tamang RL, Dræbel TA, Neupane D, Koirala Adhikari S, Soti PB, Gyawali B. Female community health volunteers' experience in navigating social context while providing basic diabetes services in western Nepal: Social capital and beyond from systems thinking. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002632. [PMID: 37992049 PMCID: PMC10664953 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
The global burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has led to an increased mobilization of community health workers (CHWs) in the prevention and management of NCDs, particularly in resource-poor settings. However, little is known about the experiences of CHWs as they navigate the complex social context while proving home-based NCD management. This study aims to explore the experiences of female community health volunteers (FCHVs) in a community-based pilot project in western Nepal, specially regarding the social challenges they face while delivering basic type 2 diabetes (T2D) services. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the study conducted two focus group discussions and nine in-depth interviews with a total of 14 and 9 FCHVs, respectively. Social Capital theory was employed to understand the sociological aspects. The findings shed light on the challenges encountered by FCHVs in expanding their social networks, building trust, and fostering reciprocity among T2D intervention recepients. Notably, social trust was a significant challenge, compounded by power dynamics related to gender and socioeconomic status. FCHVs managed to overcome these challenges through their perseverance, self-motivation, and leaveraging their strong bonding and linking social capital. The recognition they received from the community played a crucial role in sustaining their motivation. The study highlights the importance of FCHVs' strong social capital, supported by available resources and personal motivation, in overcoming social obstacles. It is imperative for community health interventions to anticipate challenges across various elements of social capital to ensure the long-term retention and motivation of CHWs. Establishing appropriate support systems that address personal motivating factors and the strengthen social capital is essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Usha Dahal
- Global Health Section, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rekha Lama Tamang
- Global Health Section, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tania Aase Dræbel
- Global Health Section, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dinesh Neupane
- Nepal Development Society, Kaski, Nepal
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | | | | | - Bishal Gyawali
- Global Health Section, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Twineamatsiko A, Mugenyi N, Kuteesa YN, Livingstone ED. Factors associated with retention of health workers in remote public health centers in Northern Uganda: a cross-sectional study. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2023; 21:83. [PMID: 37848900 PMCID: PMC10580594 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-023-00870-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health worker retention in remote and hard-to-reach areas remains a threat in most low- and middle-income countries, and this negatively impacts health service delivery. The health workforce inequity is catastrophic for countries like Uganda that still has a low health worker to patient ratio, and remote areas like Lira District that is still recovering from a long-term civil war. This study explores factors associated with retention of health workers in remote public health centers in Lira district in Northern Uganda. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional study with quantitative methods of data collection was used among health workers namely; doctors, clinical officers, nurses, midwives, pharmacists and, laboratory technicians. The study utilized a structured questionnaire with closed ended questions to obtain quantitative information. RESULTS Most of the respondents were females (62.90%), married (84.62%), with certificate level (55.74%), and nurses as qualification (36.60%) as well as attached to Health Center 3 level (61.28%). Significant individual factors associated with retention included having a certificate as highest level of education, staying with family, and working at facility for 6 or more years. The health system factors were good physical state of facility, equipment availability, availability of sundries, feeling comfortable with rotations, receiving adequate support from staff, feeling valued and respected by colleagues at workplace and access to incentives while career factors were job satisfaction, job motivation, promotion, and further training on scholarship. CONCLUSION The study established that indeed several individual and social demographics, health system and career-related factors are significantly associated with retention of Health workers in the rural public health facilities and these are critical policy recommendations for establishing retention guidelines in a national human resources for health manual.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Twineamatsiko
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Uganda Martyrs University, Kampala, Uganda
- Brunel University, London, UK
- Seed Global Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nathan Mugenyi
- Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Abacus Parenteral Drugs Limited, Mukono, Uganda
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Curry D, Islam MA, Sarker BK, Laterra A, Khandaker I. A novel approach to frontline health worker support: a case study in increasing social power among private, fee-for-service birthing attendants in rural Bangladesh. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2023; 21:7. [PMID: 36750825 PMCID: PMC9906919 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-022-00773-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expanding the health workforce to increase the availability of skilled birth attendants (SBAs) presents an opportunity to expand the power and well-being of frontline health workers. The role of the SBA holds enormous potential to transform the relationship between women, birthing caregivers, and the broader health care delivery system. This paper will present a novel approach to the community-based skilled birth attendant (SBA) role, the Skilled Health Entrepreneur (SHE) program implemented in rural Sylhet District, Bangladesh. CASE PRESENTATION The SHE model developed a public-private approach to developing and supporting a cadre of SBAs. The program focused on economic empowerment, skills building, and formal linkage to the health system for self-employed SBAs among women residents. The SHEs comprise a cadre of frontline health workers in remote, underserved areas with a stable strategy to earn adequate income and are likely to remain in practice in the area. The program design included capacity-building for the SHEs covering traditional techno-managerial training and supervision in programmatic skills and for developing their entrepreneurial skills, professional confidence, and individual decision-making. The program supported women from the community who were social peers of their clients and long-term residents of the community in becoming recognized, respected health workers linked to the public system and securing their livelihood while improving quality and access to maternal health services. This paper will describe the SHE program's design elements to enhance SHE empowerment in the context of discourse on social power and FLHWs. CONCLUSION The SHE model successfully established a private SBA cadre that improved birth outcomes and enhanced their social power and technical skills in challenging settings through the mainstream health system. Strengthening the agency, voice, and well-being of the SHEs has transformative potential. Designing SBA interventions that increase their power in their social context could expand their economic independence and reinforce positive gender and power norms in the community, addressing long-standing issues of poor remuneration, overburdened workloads, and poor retention. Witnessing the introduction of peer or near-peer women with well-respected, well-compensated roles among their neighbors can significantly expand the effectiveness of frontline health workers and offer a model for other women in their own lives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dora Curry
- CARE (formerly for Curry, Islam, and Laterra; current for Khandaker), Atlanta, USA.
- University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia.
| | - Md Ahsanul Islam
- CARE (formerly for Curry, Islam, and Laterra; current for Khandaker), Atlanta, USA
| | - Bidhan Krishna Sarker
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (formerly CARE-Bangladesh), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Anne Laterra
- CARE (formerly for Curry, Islam, and Laterra; current for Khandaker), Atlanta, USA
| | - Ikhtiar Khandaker
- CARE (formerly for Curry, Islam, and Laterra; current for Khandaker), Atlanta, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hämmerli P, Moukam AD, Wisniak A, Sormani J, Vassilakos P, Kenfack B, Petignat P, Schmidt NC. "My motivation was to save": a qualitative study exploring factors influencing motivation of community healthcare workers in a cervical cancer screening program in Dschang, Cameroon. Reprod Health 2022; 19:133. [PMID: 35668427 PMCID: PMC9167909 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-022-01420-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cervical cancer is a major public health issue among women in Cameroon and uptake of screening programs remains a challenge in many low- and middle-income countries. Community healthcare workers can play an important role in promoting cervical cancer services. This study aimed to explore factors affecting the motivation of community healthcare workers in a cervical cancer screening program in Dschang, Cameroon. Methods A qualitative approach including 11 in-depth individual interviews with community healthcare workers was used. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and coded using thematic analysis assisted by ATLAS.ti software. Results Four women and seven men aged between 21 and 77 years old were interviewed. Community healthcare workers had high motivation. Factors affecting motivation were divided into individual and environmental level, based on a theoretical framework. Factors with a positive influence on motivation were mainly on the individual side while impeding factors were mainly associated with the environmental level. Conclusions Key interventions to improve motivation among community healthcare workers include: (i) more training and supportive supervision; (ii) evaluation of remuneration systems by workload; and (iii) provision of job-enabling resources such as uniforms, cellphone cards and transport. Trial registration: Geneva Cantonal Ethics Committee on Human Research (No. 2017-01110) and the Cameroonian National Ethics Committee for Human Health Research (No. 2018/07/1083/CE/CNERSH/SP). Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among women in Cameroon. This is mainly due to the absence of routine cervical cancer screening programs and the lack of treatment. However, even in case of availability of cervical cancer screening programs, barriers exist. Therefore, community healthcare workers have been involved successfully to increase the screening coverage. As retention of these actors remains a challenge, the main objective of this study was to identify key factors affecting their motivation aiming to suggest interventions to address motivational factors. 11 qualitative interviews with individual community healthcare workers were conducted at a cervical cancer screening program in Dschang, Cameroon. Motivation was generally high and affecting factors were divided into the individual and the environmental level. Factors with a positive influence on motivation were mainly on the individual side while impeding factors were mainly associated with the environmental level. Ongoing collaboration with community healthcare workers is beneficial for cervical cancer screening programs, and key interventions should therefore include: (i) more training and supportive supervision; (ii) evaluation of remuneration systems by workload; and (iii) provision of job-enabling resources such as uniforms, cellphone cards and transport.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alida Datchoua Moukam
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, District Hospital of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Ania Wisniak
- Gynaecology Division, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jessica Sormani
- Gynaecology Division, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Geneva School of Health Sciences, HESSO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pierre Vassilakos
- Geneva Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Kenfack
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, District Hospital of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Patrick Petignat
- Gynaecology Division, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Christine Schmidt
- Gynaecology Division, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland. .,Faculty of Social Science, Catholic University of Applied Science, Preysingstr. 95, 81667, Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Nyanja N, Nyamu N, Nyaga L, Chabeda S, Lusambili A, Temmerman M, Mantel M, Ngugi A. Application of the Ultra-Poverty Graduation Model in understanding community health volunteers' preferences for socio-economic empowerment strategies to enhance retention: a qualitative study in Kilifi, Kenya. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2021; 19:104. [PMID: 34454506 PMCID: PMC8400398 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-021-00645-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A significant shortage of healthcare workforce exists globally. To achieve Universal Healthcare coverage, governments need to enhance their community-based health programmes. Community health volunteers (CHVs) are essential personnel in achieving this objective. However, their ability to earn a livelihood is compromised by the voluntary nature of their work; hence, the high attrition rates from community-based health programmes. There is an urgent need to support CHVs become economically self-reliant. We report here on the application of the Ultra-Poverty Graduation (UPG) Model to map CHVs' preferences for socio-economic empowerment strategies that could enhance their retention in a rural area in Kenya. METHODS This study adopted an exploratory qualitative approach. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, we conducted 10 Focus Group Discussions with the CHVs and 10 Key Informant Interviews with County and Sub-county Ministry of Health and Ministry of Agriculture officials including multi-lateral stakeholders' representatives from two sub-counties in the area. Data were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim and transcripts analysed in NVivo. Researcher triangulation supported the first round of analysis. Findings were mapped and interpreted using a theory-driven analysis based on the six-step Ultra-Poverty Graduation Model. RESULTS We mapped the UPG Model's six steps onto the results of our analyses as follows: (1) initial asset transfer of in-kind goods like poultry or livestock, mentioned by the CHVs as a necessary step; (2) weekly stipends with consumption support to stabilise consumption; (3) hands-on training on how to care for assets, start and run a business based on the assets transferred; (4) training on and facilitation for savings and financial support to build assets and instil financial discipline; (5) healthcare provision and access and finally (6) social integration. These strategies were proposed by the CHVs to enhance economic empowerment and aligned with the UPG Model. CONCLUSION These results provide a user-defined approach to identify and assess strategic needs of and approaches to CHVs' socio-economic empowerment using the UPG model. This model was useful in mapping the findings of our qualitative study and in enhancing our understanding on how these needs can be addressed in order to economically empower CHVs and enhance their retention in our setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Njeri Nyanja
- Department of Family Medicine, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Nelson Nyamu
- Department of Family Medicine, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lucy Nyaga
- Centre of Excellence for Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Marleen Temmerman
- Centre of Excellence for Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Michaela Mantel
- Centre of Excellence for Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anthony Ngugi
- Department of Population Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Garrison-Desany HM, Wilson E, Munos M, Sawadogo-Lewis T, Maïga A, Ako O, Mkuwa S, Hobbs AJ, Morgan R. The role of gender power relations on women's health outcomes: evidence from a maternal health coverage survey in Simiyu region, Tanzania. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:909. [PMID: 33980197 PMCID: PMC8117490 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10972-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender is a crucial consideration of human rights that impacts many priority maternal health outcomes. However, gender is often only reported in relation to sex-disaggregated data in health coverage surveys. Few coverage surveys to date have integrated a more expansive set of gender-related questions and indicators, especially in low- to middle-income countries that have high levels of reported gender inequality. Using various gender-sensitive indicators, we investigated the role of gender power relations within households on women's health outcomes in Simiyu region, Tanzania. METHODS We assessed 34 questions around gender dynamics reported by men and women against 18 women's health outcomes. We created directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) to theorize the relationship between indicators, outcomes, and sociodemographic covariates. We grouped gender variables into four categories using an established gender framework: (1) women's decision-making, (2) household labor-sharing, (3) women's resource access, and (4) norms/beliefs. Gender indicators that were most proximate to the health outcomes in the DAG were tested using multivariate logistic regression, adjusting for sociodemographic factors. RESULTS The overall percent agreement of gender-related indicators within couples was 68.6%. The lowest couple concordance was a woman's autonomy to decide to see family/friends without permission from her husband/partner (40.1%). A number of relationships between gender-related indicators and health outcomes emerged: questions from the decision-making domain were found to play a large role in women's health outcomes, and condoms and contraceptive outcomes had the most robust relationship with gender indicators. Women who reported being able to make their own health decisions were 1.57 times (95% CI: 1.12, 2.20) more likely to use condoms. Women who reported that they decide how many children they had also reported high contraception use (OR: 1.79, 95% CI: 1.34, 2.39). Seeking care at the health facility was also associated with women's autonomy for making major household purchases (OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.62). CONCLUSIONS The association between decision-making and other gender domains with women's health outcomes highlights the need for heightened attention to gender dimensions of intervention coverage in maternal health. Future studies should integrate and analyze gender-sensitive questions within coverage surveys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henri M Garrison-Desany
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Emily Wilson
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Melinda Munos
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Talata Sawadogo-Lewis
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Abdoulaye Maïga
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Onome Ako
- Amref Health Africa Canada, 489 College Street, Toronto, ON, M6G 1A5, Canada
| | - Serafina Mkuwa
- Amref Health African Tanzania, Ali Hassan Mwinyi Road, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Amy J Hobbs
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Rosemary Morgan
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Manus M, van der Linde J, Kuper H, Olinger R, Swanepoel DW. Community-Based Hearing and Vision Screening in Schools in Low-Income Communities Using Mobile Health Technologies. Lang Speech Hear Serv Sch 2021; 52:568-580. [PMID: 33497579 DOI: 10.1044/2020_lshss-20-00089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Globally, more than 50 million children have hearing or vision loss. Most of these sensory losses are identified late due to a lack of systematic screening, making treatment and rehabilitation less effective. Mobile health (mHealth), which is the use of smartphones or wireless devices in health care, can improve access to screening services. mHealth technologies allow lay health workers (LHWs) to provide hearing and vision screening in communities. Purpose The aim of the study was to evaluate a hearing and vision school screening program facilitated by LHWs using smartphone applications in a low-income community in South Africa. Method Three LHWs were trained to provide dual sensory screening using smartphone-based applications. The hearScreen app with calibrated headphones was used to conduct screening audiometry, and the Peek Acuity app was used for visual acuity screening. Schools were selected from low-income communities (Gauteng, South Africa), and children aged between 4 and 9 years received hearing and vision screening. Screening outcomes, associated variables, and program costs were evaluated. Results A total of 4,888 and 4,933 participants received hearing and vision screening, respectively. Overall, 1.6% of participants failed the hearing screening, and 3.6% failed visual acuity screening. Logistic regression showed that female participants were more likely to pass hearing screening (OR = 1.61, 95% CI [1.11, 2.54]), while older children were less likely to pass visual acuity screening (OR = 0.87, 95% CI [0.79, 0.96]). A third (32.5%) of referred cases followed up for air-conduction threshold audiometry, and one in four (25.1%) followed up for diagnostic vision testing. A high proportion of these cases were confirmed to have hearing (73.1%, 19/26) or vision loss (57.8%, 26/45). Conclusions mHealth technologies can enable LHWs to identify school-age children with hearing and/or vision loss in low-income communities. This approach allows for low-cost, scalable models for early detection of sensory losses that can affect academic performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Manus
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jeannie van der Linde
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Hannah Kuper
- International School for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Renate Olinger
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - De Wet Swanepoel
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa.,Ear Science Centre, School of Surgery, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia.,Ear Science Institute Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Peresu E, Heunis JC, Kigozi NG, De Graeve D. Task-shifting directly observed treatment and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis injection administration to lay health workers: stakeholder perceptions in rural Eswatini. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2020; 18:97. [PMID: 33272307 PMCID: PMC7712623 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-020-00541-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eswatini is facing a critical shortage of human resources for health (HRH) and limited access to multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) treatment in rural areas. This study assessed multiple stakeholders' perceptions of task-shifting directly observed treatment (DOT) supervision and administration of intramuscular MDR-TB injections to lay health workers (LHWs). METHODS A mixed methods study comprising a cross-sectional survey using a semi-structured questionnaire with community treatment supporters (CTSs) and a focus group discussion with key stakeholders including representatives from the Eswatini Ministry of Health (MOH), donor organisations, professional regulatory institutions, nursing academia, civil society and healthcare providers was conducted in May 2017. Descriptive statistics, thematic content analysis and data triangulation aided in the interpretation of results. RESULTS A large majority of CTSs (n = 78; 95.1%) were female and 33 (40.2%) were older than 50 years. Most (n = 7; 70.0%) key stakeholders had over 10 years of work experience in policy-making, advocacy in the fields of HRH or day-to-day practice in MDR-TB management. Task-shifting of MDR-TB injection administration was implemented without national policy guidance and regulation. Stakeholders viewed the strategy to be driven by the prevailing shortage of professional frontline HRH and limited access to MDR-TB treatment. Task-shifting was perceived to improve medication adherence, and reduce stigma and transport-related MDR-TB treatment access barriers. Frontline healthcare workers and implementing donor partners fully supported task-shifting. Policy-makers and other stakeholders accepted task-shifting conditionally due to fears of poor standards of care related to perceived incompetence of CTSs. Appropriate compensation, adequate training and supervision, and non-financial incentives were suggested to retain CTSs. A holistic task-shifting policy and collaboration between the MOH, academia and nursing council in regulating the practice were recommended. CONCLUSIONS Stakeholders generally accepted the delegation of DOT supervision and administration of intramuscular MDR-TB injections to LHWs as a strategy to increase access to treatment, albeit with some apprehension. Findings from this study stress that task-shifting is not a panacea for HRH shortages, but a short-term solution that must form part of an overall simultaneous strategy to train, attract and retain adequate numbers of professional healthcare workers in Eswatini. To address some of the apprehension and ambivalence about expanding access to MDR-TB services through task-shifting, attention should be paid to important aspects such as competence-based training, certification and accreditation, adequate supportive on-the-job supervision, recognition, compensation, and expediting policy and regulatory support for LHWs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Peresu
- Centre for Development Support, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 399, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa.
| | - J Christo Heunis
- Centre for Health Systems Research & Development, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 399, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa
| | - N Gladys Kigozi
- Centre for Health Systems Research & Development, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 399, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa
| | - Diana De Graeve
- Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Khumalo GE, Lutge E, Naidoo P, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Barriers and facilitators of rendering HIV services by community health workers in sub-Saharan Africa: a meta-synthesis protocol. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e037876. [PMID: 33040005 PMCID: PMC7552870 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-037876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Community healthcare workers (CHWs) worldwide have been reported to be effective in strengthening the HIV programme by providing services such as adherence support, HIV education and safe sex education as part of their roles. The main aim of this meta-synthesis is to synthesise qualitative evidence on studies that have been conducted in SSA countries to understand the barriers to and facilitators of providing HIV services by CHWs across all settings METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This meta-synthesis will be guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. An initial search was conducted on 15 November 2019 for studies published between 2009 and 2019 using the population exposure outcome nomenclature. We searched the EBSCOHost- (ERIC; Health Source-Nursing/Academic Edition), Google Scholar and PubMed databases for the relevant studies. The Ritchie and Spencer framework will be used for data synthesis and the Supporting the Use of Research Evidence Framework analysis will be used to analyse data. We will conduct critical appraisal on selected studies using the Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument to limit risk of bias. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This review does not involve any human participants and therefore ethical approval will not be required. We will publish the protocol as well as the findings in any relevant journal and various media namely conferences; symposia, local and international health stakeholders. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020160012. CONCLUSION Evidence from this review will provide synthesised evidence to the utilisation of CHWs in HIV services in SSA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gugulethu Eve Khumalo
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal College of Health Sciences, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Health, KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Elizabeth Lutge
- KwaZulu Natal Department of Health, South African Government, Durban, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
| | - Praba Naidoo
- Library, University of KwaZulu-Natal - Medical School, Durban, South Africa
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kigozi G, Heunis C, Engelbrecht M. Community health worker motivation to perform systematic household contact tuberculosis investigation in a high burden metropolitan district in South Africa. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:882. [PMID: 32943026 PMCID: PMC7499870 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05612-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND South Africa faces a chronic shortage of professional health workers. Accordingly, community health workers (CHWs) are being employed to mitigate the ongoing health workforce deficiencies. As increased access to quality service delivery hinges upon their motivation, this study explored CHWs' motivation to deliver systematic household contact tuberculosis (TB) investigation (SHCI). METHODS In 2017, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among CHWs in the Mangaung Metropolitan District, Free State Province. Exploratory factor analysis was performed on a 30-item scale to determine the dimensions underlying CHW motivation. Items with factor loadings of 0.4 and above were retained. Descriptive and inferential analyses were used to determine CHW motivation levels. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to investigate the determinants of CHW motivation. RESULTS Out of 235 participants, 89.2% were female. Participants' median age was 39 (inter-quartile range: 33-45) years. CHW motivation was defined by 16 items across three dimensions - intrinsic job satisfaction, burnout and team commitment, together explaining 56.04% of the total variance. The derived scale showed satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.81), with a mean motivation score of 52.26 (standard deviation [sd]: 5.86) out of 64. Statistically significant differences were observed between formal CHWs - those with at least phase 1 standardised accredited training, and informal CHWs - those without such accredited training regarding team commitment scores (17.82 [sd: 2.48] vs. 17.07 [sd: 2.82]; t(233) = 2.157; p = 0.013). CHW age (β = 0.118, p = 0.029), location (β = 1.737, p = 0.041), length of service (β = - 0.495, p < 0.001), attendance of TB SHCI training (β = 1.809, p = 0.036), and TB SHCI competence (β = 0.706, p < 0.001), contributed statistically significantly to CHW motivation. CONCLUSION CHW motivation to perform TB SHCI was both intrinsic and extrinsic. The high overall mean score implies that the CHWs were well-motivated to perform TB SHCI. To ensure sustained improved access to quality TB SHCI service provision, programme managers in the Free State and similar settings could potentially use the tool derived from this study to monitor and inform CHW motivation interventions. Interventions should pay close attention to the CHWs' formalisation, competence and training.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gladys Kigozi
- Centre for Health Systems Research & Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa.
| | - Christo Heunis
- Centre for Health Systems Research & Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Michelle Engelbrecht
- Centre for Health Systems Research & Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Schurer JM, Fowler K, Rafferty E, Masimbi O, Muhire J, Rozanski O, Amuguni HJ. Equity for health delivery: Opportunity costs and benefits among Community Health Workers in Rwanda. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0236255. [PMID: 32881867 PMCID: PMC7470334 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0236255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a vital role delivering health services to vulnerable populations in low resource settings. In Rwanda, CHWs provide village-level care focused on maternal/child health, control of infectious diseases, and health education, but do not receive salaries for these services. CHWs make up the largest single group involved in health delivery in the country; however, limited information is available regarding the socio-economic circumstances and satisfaction levels of this workforce. Such information can support governments aiming to control infectious diseases and alleviate poverty through enhanced healthcare delivery. The objectives of this study were to (1) evaluate CHW opportunity costs, (2) identify drivers for CHW motivation, job satisfaction and care provision, and (3) report CHW ideas for improving retention and service delivery. In this mixed-methods study, our team conducted in-depth interviews with 145 CHWs from three districts (Kirehe, Kayonza, Burera) to collect information on household economics and experiences in delivering healthcare. Across the three districts, CHWs contributed approximately four hours of volunteer work per day (range: 0-12 hrs/day), which translated to 127 684 RWF per year (range: 2 359-2 247 807 RWF/yr) in lost personal income. CHW out-of-pocket expenditures (e.g. patient transportation) were estimated at 36 228 RWF per year (range: 3 600-364 800 RWF/yr). Participants identified many benefits to being CHWs, including free healthcare training, improved social status, and the satisfaction of helping others. They also identified challenges, such as aging equipment, discrepancies in financial reimbursements, poverty, and lack of formal workspaces or working hours. Lastly, CHWs provided perspectives on reasonable and feasible improvements to village-level health programming that could improve conditions and equity for those providing and using the CHW system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janna M. Schurer
- Center for One Health, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, United States of America
| | - Kelly Fowler
- Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, United States of America
| | - Ellen Rafferty
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ornella Masimbi
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jean Muhire
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Olivia Rozanski
- Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, United States of America
| | - Hellen J. Amuguni
- Center for One Health, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Killeen GF, Kiware SS. Why lockdown? Why national unity? Why global solidarity? Simplified arithmetic tools for decision-makers, health professionals, journalists and the general public to explore containment options for the 2019 novel coronavirus. Infect Dis Model 2020; 5:442-458. [PMID: 32691016 PMCID: PMC7342051 DOI: 10.1016/j.idm.2020.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As every country in the world struggles with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential that as many people as possible understand the epidemic containment, elimination and exclusion strategies required to tackle it. Simplified arithmetic models of COVID-19 transmission, control and elimination are presented in user-friendly Shiny and Excel formats that allow non-specialists to explore, query, critique and understand the containment decisions facing their country and the world at large. Although the predictive model is broadly applicable, the simulations presented are based on parameter values representative of the United Republic of Tanzania, which is still early enough in its epidemic cycle and response to avert a national catastrophe. The predictions of these models illustrate (1) why ambitious lock-down interventions to crush the curve represent the only realistic way for individual countries to contain their national-level epidemics before they turn into outright catastrophes, (2) why these need to be implemented so early, so stringently and for such extended periods, (3) why high prevalence of other pathogens causing similar symptoms to mild COVID-19 precludes the use of contact tracing as a substitute for lock down interventions to contain and eliminate epidemics, (4) why partial containment strategies intended to merely flatten the curve, by maintaining epidemics at manageably low levels, are grossly unrealistic, and (5) why local elimination may only be sustained after lock down ends if imported cases are comprehensively excluded, so international co-operation to conditionally re-open trade and travel between countries certified as free of COVID-19 represents the best strategy for motivating progress towards pandemic eradication at global level. The three sequential goals that every country needs to emphatically embrace are contain, eliminate and exclude. As recently emphasized by the World Health Organization, success will require widespread genuine national unity and unprecedented global solidarity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerry F Killeen
- Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, Morogoro, United Republic of Tanzania
- School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences and Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - Samson S Kiware
- Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara, Morogoro, United Republic of Tanzania
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Early J, Gonzalez C, Gordon-Dseagu V, Robles-Calderon L. Use of Mobile Health (mHealth) Technologies and Interventions Among Community Health Workers Globally: A Scoping Review. Health Promot Pract 2019; 20:805-817. [PMID: 31179777 DOI: 10.1177/1524839919855391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
There is mounting evidence to show that community health workers (CHWs) play a positive role in improving population health by connecting people to information, resources, and services. However, barriers faced by CHWs include not being able to access information quickly and in a language tailored to the communities they serve. Mobile health (mHealth) shows promise of bridging this gap. Although there are a number of studies published on mHealth interventions, there is a need to synthesize the literature specific to mHealth and CHWs globally. Therefore, the primary goals of this review are to identify and describe over ten years of studies on the use, effectiveness, and potential of mHealth involving CHWs. Findings provide evidence-based strategies for designing and implementing mHealth tools for and with CHWs. We used criteria and methodology for scoping reviews established by the Joanna Briggs Institute as well as PRISMA protocols. We searched scholarly databases for peer-reviewed articles published between 2007 and 2018. The initial search yielded 207 published articles; after applying inclusion criteria, the sample totaled 64. While research about mHealth use among CHWs is still emerging, we found out that large-scale, longitudinal, and clinical studies are lacking. The existing evidence indicates that interventions, which include both CHWs and mHealth tools, are effective. Challenges include the scarcity of culturally relevant mHealth interventions, lack of a consistent methodology to assess mHealth outcomes, the need for effective training for CHWs to adopt mHealth tools, and improved communication within health care teams working with CHWs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jody Early
- University of Washington Bothell, Bothell, WA, USA
| | | | - Vanessa Gordon-Dseagu
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|