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Kibuchi E, Chumo I, Kabaria C, Elsey H, Phillips-Howard P, de Siqueira-Filha NT, Whittaker L, Leyland AH, Mberu B, Gray L. Health inequalities at the intersection of multiple social determinants among under five children residing Nairobi urban slums: An application of multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy (MAIHDA). PLOS Glob Public Health 2024; 4:e0002931. [PMID: 38422055 PMCID: PMC10903897 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
In this analysis we examine through an intersectionality lens how key social determinants of health (SDOH) are associated with health conditions among under-five children (<5y) residing in Nairobi slums, Kenya. We used cross-sectional data collected from Nairobi slums between June and November 2012 to explore how multiple interactions of SDoH shape health inequalities in slums. We applied multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy (MAIHDA) approach. We constructed intersectional strata for each health condition from combinations of significant SDoH obtained using univariate analyses. We then estimated the intersectional effects of health condition in a series of MAIHDA logistic regression models distinguishing between additive and interaction effects. We quantified discriminatory accuracy (DA) of the intersectional strata by means of the variance partitioning coefficient (VPC) and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC). The total participants were 2,199 <5y, with 120 records (5.5%) dropped because health conditions were recorded as "not applicable". The main outcome variables were three health conditions: 1) whether a child had diarrhea or not, 2) whether a child had fever or not, and 3) whether a child had cough or not in the previous two weeks. We found non-significant intersectional effects for each health condition. The head of household ethnic group was significantly associated with each health condition. We found good DA for diarrhea (VPC = 9.0%, AUC-ROC = 76.6%) an indication of large intersectional effects. However, fever (VPC = 1.9%, AUC-ROC = 66.3%) and cough (VPC = 0.5%, AUC-ROC = 61.8%) had weak DA indicating existence of small intersectional effects. Our study shows pathways for SDoH that affect diarrhea, cough, and fever for <5y living in slums are multiplicative and shared. The findings show that <5y from Luo and Luhya ethnic groups, recent migrants (less than 2 years), and households experiencing CHE are more likely to face worse health outcomes. We recommend relevant stakeholders to develop strategies aimed at identifying these groups for targeted proportionate universalism based on the level of their need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliud Kibuchi
- School of Health and Wellbeing, MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ivy Chumo
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Helen Elsey
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Lana Whittaker
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Alastair H. Leyland
- School of Health and Wellbeing, MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Blessing Mberu
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linsay Gray
- School of Health and Wellbeing, MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Karuga R, Kabaria C, Chumo I, Okoth L, Njoroge I, Otiso L, Muturi N, Karki J, Dean L, Tolhurst R, Steege R, Ozano K, Theobald S, Mberu B. Voices and challenges of marginalized and vulnerable groups in urban informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya: building on a spectrum of community-based participatory research approaches. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1175326. [PMID: 38074741 PMCID: PMC10701261 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1175326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Urbanization is rapidly increasing across Africa, including in Nairobi, Kenya. Many people, recent migrants and long-term residents, live within dense and dynamic urban informal settlements. These contexts are fluid and heterogeneous, and deepening the understanding of how vulnerabilities and marginalization are experienced is important to inform pointed action, service delivery and policy priorities. The aim of this paper is to explore vulnerabilities and marginalization within Korogocho and Viwandani informal settlements in Nairobi and generate lessons on the value of a spectrum of community based participatory research approaches for understanding health and well-being needs and pinpointing appropriate interventions. In the exploratory stages of our ARISE consortium research, we worked with co-researchers to use the following methods: social mapping, governance diaries, and photo voice. Social mapping (including the use of Focus Group Discussions) identified key vulnerable groups: marginalized and precarious child heads of households (CHHs), Persons with disability who face multiple discrimination and health challenges, and often isolated older adults; and their priority needs, including health, education, water and sanitation. The governance diaries generated an understanding of the perceptions of the particularly vulnerable and marginalized informal settlement residents regarding the various people and institutions with the power to influence health and wellbeing; while photo voice highlighted the lived experiences of vulnerability and marginality. Understanding and responding to fluid and intersecting marginalities and vulnerabilities within growing urban informal settlements is particularly critical to achieving inclusive urbanization, where no one is left behind, a theme central to the Sustainable Development Goals and Kenya's Vision 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robinson Karuga
- Department of Research and Strategic Information, LVCT Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Caroline Kabaria
- Urbanization and Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ivy Chumo
- Urbanization and Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linet Okoth
- Department of Research and Strategic Information, LVCT Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Inviolata Njoroge
- Department of Research and Strategic Information, LVCT Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lilian Otiso
- Department of Research and Strategic Information, LVCT Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nelly Muturi
- Airbel Impact Lab, International Rescue Committee, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jiban Karki
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Dean
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Tolhurst
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Rosie Steege
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kim Ozano
- The SCL Agency, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Sally Theobald
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Blessing Mberu
- Urbanization and Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Demography and Population Studies, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Chumo I, Kabaria C, Mberu B. Social inclusion of persons with disability in employment: what would it take to socially support employed persons with disability in the labor market? Front Rehabil Sci 2023; 4:1125129. [PMID: 37456796 PMCID: PMC10349392 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1125129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Introduction One of the major challenges that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are facing globally is unemployment. The challenge is attributed to systems that are not built with inclusivity in mind by employers. As such, the work of inclusion is not inviting PWDs to do more but to make a difference through social support. Most research on inclusion in the employment of PWDs in low-income settings has been concentrated upon the labor "supply" side, and to the best of our knowledge, no specific studies moved toward inclusion in employment issues from the employers' perspective in informal settlements. Notably, our research question is: "what would it take to socially support employed PWD in informal settlements building from the perspectives of employers." Methods This paper used data from in-depth interviews with 38 service providers in the education, health, water, sanitation, and solid waste management sectors and two sub-county officials in two informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. The service providers were employers or entrepreneurs who had hired PWDs in their workspaces and the sub-county officials that had vast experiences with employed PWDs. Data from transcripts were analyzed by the research team using content analysis. Results The social support offered to employed PWDs included listening to them with a concern; identifying their strengths and obstacles; planning for them based on their qualities, knowledge, and experience and linking them with existing opportunities; creating specific opportunities and facilitating their access to opportunities; gradual withdrawal of support by support group; and, lastly, compromise by employers with PWD inclusion strategies. Study participants described how misdirected and inadequate resources, dissatisfaction and unhappiness, and conflicts at the workplace associated with non-inclusion were constraints to social support. Employment matters affecting PWDs are complex and require multi-pronged context-specific social support approaches. Essential to the functioning of an inclusive workplace for PWDs were communication, coordination, sharing of the workload, and supporting individual PWD. Conclusion Inclusion of PWDs in the labor market is about generating a supportive workplace where people are valued and appreciated without judgement for what they can contribute. Notably, in the absence of jobs for everyone and high unemployment rates among every segment of the population, there is a need for an awareness creation, mobilization, and sensitization of employers and investors around the competencies of PWDs and their need to socially support on an impartial basis. On the other hand, employment centers could establish stations in low-income areas to advise and support PWDs on career opportunities that are disability-friendly and partner with employers to avail information about the capabilities of PWDs. Conversely, the government should provide some tax-related benefits to employers to upsurge employer incentives for hiring PWDs and empower employers on benefits and positive culture of employing PWDs. At all times, employers should be hands-on and involve diverse stakeholders to implement current policies and frameworks in different work contexts across the country and beyond.
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Chumo I, Kabaria C, Shankland A, Igonya E, Mberu B. Complementarity of formal and informal actors and their networks in support of vulnerable populations in informal settlements: Governance diaries approach. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1043602. [PMID: 36777785 PMCID: PMC9911518 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1043602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Beyond several interests and speculations on the relationship between formal and informal actors and their networks in support of vulnerable populations, most studies do not conclusively establish whether the two types of support are substitutes or complements. While informal care and formal care may be substitutes in general, they are complements among the vulnerable groups. Despite how some studies have described complementarity, further insights on the synergy between formal and informal actors and networks are needed to pinpoint how to maximize policy and interventions to alleviate the challenges facing vulnerable groups in informal settlements. Methods We conducted an ethnography using governance diaries with 24 participants in Korogocho and Viwandani informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. The governance diaries approach involved conducting bi-weekly governance in-depth interviews (IDIs) with study participants for 4 months, complemented with observations, reflections, participant diaries and informal discussions. We used framework analysis approach. Findings Informal actors identified include family, neighbors, friends, community groups and community members, and their direct networks. Formal actors on the other hand included government institutions, individuals and authorities that make policies and rules and their desired and possible networks. Both the formal and informal actors and their networks had complementary roles that were beneficial to the vulnerable populations living and working in informal settlements. The complementarities between formal and informal actors and networks in supporting vulnerable groups were portrayed in roles and responsibilities to the vulnerable groups; rules, regulations and governance in supporting vulnerable groups; knowledge, skills and dynamic workforces among formal and informal actors and their networks; information flow on health and wellbeing to the vulnerable populations; transition of actors in supporting vulnerable groups; availability, access and involvement of formal and informal actors and networks to support vulnerable groups. The complementarities allowed for maximum support of the vulnerable populations than otherwise. Conclusion We conclude that informal social support is needed regardless of the availability of formal social support. Moreover, a combination of formal and informal actors and related networks are essential to support vulnerable persons. Formal actors should establish, support, or maintain the informal actors and related networks through goodwill and sundry incentives as a vital dimension of building with local community structures and enhancing inclusion, participation and ownership of policy and program interventions by marginalized and vulnerable groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivy Chumo
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Caroline Kabaria
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alex Shankland
- Institute of Development Studies (IDS), Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Emmy Igonya
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Blessing Mberu
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
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Chumo I, Kabaria C, Elsey H, Ozano K, Phillips-Howard PA, Mberu B. Co-creation and self-evaluation: An accountability mechanism process in water, sanitation and hygiene services delivery in childcare centres in Nairobi's informal settlements. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1035284. [PMID: 36711348 PMCID: PMC9877527 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1035284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Accountability strategies are expected to enhance access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) service delivery in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC). Conventional formal social accountability mechanisms (SAMs) for WASH service delivery have been inadequate to meet the needs of residents in informal settlements in LMICs. This has prompted growing interest in alternative informal SAMs (iSAMs) in Nairobi's informal settlements. To date, iSAMs have shown a limited effect, often due to implementation failures and poor contextual fit. In childcare centers in Nairobi's informal settlements, co-creation of the iSAMs process, where parents, childcare managers, researchers and other WASH stakeholders, contribute to the design and implementation of iSAMs, is an approach with the potential to meet urgent WASH needs. However, to our knowledge, no study has documented (1) co-creating iSAMs processes for WASH service delivery in childcare centers and (2) self-evaluation of the co-creation process in the informal settlements. Methods We used a qualitative approach where we collected data through workshops and focus group discussions to document and inform (a) co-creation processes of SAMs for WASH service delivery in childcare centers and (b) self-evaluation of the co-creation process. We used a framework approach for data analysis informed by Coleman's framework. Results Study participants co-created an iSAM process that entailed: definition; action and sharing information; judging and assessing; and learning and adapting iSAMs. The four steps were considered to increase the capability to meet WASH needs in childcare centers. We also documented a self-evaluation appraisal of the iSAM process. Study participants described that the co-creation process could improve understanding, inclusion, ownership and performance in WASH service delivery. Negative appraisals described included financial, structural, social and time constraints. Conclusion We conclude that the co-creation process could address contextual barriers which are often overlooked, as it allows understanding of issues through the 'eyes' of people who experience service delivery issues. Further, we conclude that sustainable and equitable WASH service delivery in childcare centers in informal settlements needs research that goes beyond raising awareness to fully engage and co-create to ensure that novel solutions are developed at an appropriate scale to meet specific needs. We recommend that actors should incorporate co-creation in identification of feasible structures for WASH service delivery in childcare centers and other contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivy Chumo
- Urbanization and Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya,*Correspondence: Ivy Chumo ✉
| | - Caroline Kabaria
- Urbanization and Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helen Elsey
- Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Kim Ozano
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Institute of Public Health, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Penelope A. Phillips-Howard
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Institute of Public Health, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Blessing Mberu
- Urbanization and Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
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Chumo I, Kabaria C, Oduor C, Amondi C, Njeri A, Mberu B. Community advisory committee as a facilitator of health and wellbeing: A qualitative study in informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1047133. [PMID: 36699924 PMCID: PMC9868729 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1047133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction A range of community engagement initiatives to advance health and wellbeing are currently taking place in informal settlements in low and middle income countries (LMICs), including community and stakeholder meetings, use of radio, film, TV programs and other information, education and communication materials (IECs) organized by different stakeholders. While these initiatives tend to focus on unidirectional flow of information to communities, the need to incorporate initiatives focusing on bi or multi-directional flow of information have been identified. Despite the extensive body of literature on community engagement, the role of Community Advisory Committees (CACs) in advancing health and wellbeing in informal settlements is still a puzzle, occasioned by considerable ambiguity. A community advisory committee is a dedicated group of volunteers to support health and wellbeing needs of their community using a community approach. Researchers and project implementers work in partnership with CACs to successfully implement their activities within the target community. Methods In this paper, using in-depth interviews, we document the roles of CACs in advancing health and wellbeing in Korogocho and Viwandani informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. Results Study participants described the role of CAC in advancing health and wellbeing through education and awareness creation, advisory roles in research and implementation goals, protecting community interests and acting as gatekeepers and collaborators to community partners. Identified barriers to achieving CAC roles include lack of finance and other field resources, being labeled as organization staff and low involvement by some upcoming and emerging local leaders on issues which involve the CAC constituents. Enablers of CACs in their roles include possession of appropriate skills and values by members; involvement of the community in the selection of members, regular consultative and advisory meetings, representativeness in the composition of CAC membership and knowledge about the community. Conclusion We conclude that CACs play key roles in advancing health and wellbeing in informal settlements and that existing CACs mechanisms and operations need to be given due consideration by researchers, project implementers and local authorities right from project conceptualization. CACs need recognition beyond consultations and placations during research and project implementation to a veritable social structure for community's social viability and survival as well as partners in development for inclusive urbanization process. While CACs have contributed in advancing health and wellbeing in informal settlements, there is need for a long-term strategy to optimize their impact and reduce puzzles around their roles.
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Chumo I, Kabaria C, Phillips-Howard PA, Simiyu S, Elsey H, Mberu B. Mapping social accountability actors and networks and their roles in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in childcare centres within Nairobi’s informal settlements: A governance diaries approach. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275491. [PMCID: PMC9665391 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite many institutions gaining access to improved water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services, childcare centres in informal settlements have low access and poor condition of WASH services. It is imperative to understand how existing actors and social networks operate in the WASH sector in childcare centres in Nairobi’s informal settlements. Objective To empirically map and understand how different actors within informal settlements influence the provision of adequate and quality water, sanitation and hygiene services within childcare centres in Nairobi’s informal settlements. Methods This was a qualitative study. We conducted an ethnographic study using governance diaries with 24 participants from Korogocho and Viwandani informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. The governance diaries approach involved conducting bi-weekly governance in-depth interviews (IDIs) with study participants for 4 months, complemented with observations, reflections, participant diaries and informal discussions. We used a framework analysis which is partly deductive, informed by the governance framework and stakeholder framework. Results Social accountability actors were individuals or groups involved in WASH service provision in childcare centres. The actors included both key actors (actors who are primary to meeting the day-to-day WASH service needs of children) and non-key actors (actors operating in the WASH sector but not always present for day-to-day provision in childcare centres). The key actors were unanimously identified as childcare centre owners/teachers and parents/guardians as they had a more direct role in the provision of WASH services in childcare centres. The actors had direct, possible or desired networks, with the direct networks portrayed more by the parents and childcare centre owners, whose roles included acting as a voice and responding to the WASH service needs of children as it relates to access and quality. Centre owners had more power/authority over WASH services for children in childcare centres than the parents. Key actors derived power by their discretion depending on whether a decision was beneficial to children or not. Lastly, the interest of key actors were diverse ranging from income generation, access to WASH services by children, compliance with government regulations, and promotion of child health, to the prevention of the spread of diseases. Conclusion Our study highlights that parents and childcare owners play an important role in WASH service provision. While service providers and other players may be statutorily given primary responsibilities for WASH provision, and more visible in official standing, among study participants they are not seen as primary actors but secondary players with ancillary responsibilities. We conclude that WASH service provision in child care centres may be realised when key actors have a voice and work within networks to demand WASH services from desired networks including the government. We also conclude that developing more direct networks and converting desired and potential networks into direct networks in WASH service provision is critical for the success of WASH service delivery. Lastly, actors in WASH services in childcare centres may need to collaborate in identifying potential avenues for strengthening existing networks that enhance access and quality of WASH services in childcare centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivy Chumo
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
- * E-mail:
| | - Caroline Kabaria
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Sheillah Simiyu
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helen Elsey
- University of York and Hull York Medical School, York, United Kingdom
| | - Blessing Mberu
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
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Kibuchi E, Barua P, Chumo I, Teixeira de Siqueira Filha N, Phillips-Howard P, Mithu MIH, Kabaria C, Quayyum Z, Whittaker L, Dean L, Forsyth R, Selim T, Aktar B, Sai V, Garimella S, Saidu S, Gandi I, Josyula LK, Mberu B, Elsey H, Leyland AH, Gray L. Effects of social determinants on children's health in informal settlements in Bangladesh and Kenya through an intersectionality lens: a study protocol. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056494. [PMID: 35667712 PMCID: PMC9171224 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several studies have shown that residents of urban informal settlements/slums are usually excluded and marginalised from formal social systems and structures of power leading to disproportionally worse health outcomes compared to other urban dwellers. To promote health equity for slum dwellers, requires an understanding of how their lived realities shape inequities especially for young children 0-4 years old (ie, under-fives) who tend to have a higher mortality compared with non-slum children. In these proposed studies, we aim to examine how key Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) factors at child and household levels combine to affect under-five health conditions, who live in slums in Bangladesh and Kenya through an intersectionality lens. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The protocol describes how we will analyse data from the Nairobi Cross-sectional Slum Survey (NCSS 2012) for Kenya and the Urban Health Survey (UHS 2013) for Bangladesh to explore how SDoH influence under-five health outcomes in slums within an intersectionality framework. The NCSS 2012 and UHS 2013 samples will consist of 2199 and 3173 under-fives, respectively. We will apply Multilevel Analysis of Individual Heterogeneity and Discriminatory Accuracy approach. Some of SDoH characteristics to be considered will include those of children, head of household, mothers and social structure characteristics of household. The primary outcomes will be whether a child had diarrhoea, cough, fever and acute respiratory infection (ARI) 2 weeks preceding surveys. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The results will be disseminated in international peer-reviewed journals and presented in events organised by the Accountability and Responsiveness in Informal Settlements for Equity consortium and international conferences. Ethical approval was not required for these studies. Access to the NCSS 2012 has been given by Africa Population and Health Center and UHS 2013 is freely available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliud Kibuchi
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Proloy Barua
- School of Public Health, BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ivy Chumo
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Md Imran Hossain Mithu
- School of Public Health, BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Zahidul Quayyum
- School of Public Health, BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Lana Whittaker
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Laura Dean
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ross Forsyth
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Tasmiah Selim
- School of Public Health, BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Bachera Aktar
- School of Public Health, BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Varun Sai
- The George Institute for Global Health India, New Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Sureka Garimella
- The George Institute for Global Health India, New Delhi, Delhi, India
| | | | - Ibrahim Gandi
- Centre Of Dialogue On Human Settlement And Poverty Alleviation (CODOHSAPA), Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | | | - Blessing Mberu
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helen Elsey
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Alastair H Leyland
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Linsay Gray
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Bakibinga P, Kisia L, Atela M, Kibe PM, Kabaria C, Kisiangani I, Kyobutungi C. Demand and supply-side barriers and opportunities to enhance access to healthcare for urban poor populations in Kenya: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e057484. [PMID: 35523490 PMCID: PMC9083429 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the barriers to and options for improving access to quality healthcare for the urban poor in Nairobi, Kenya. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS This was a qualitative approach. In-depth interviews (n=12), focus group discussions with community members (n=12) and key informant interviews with health providers and policymakers (n=25) were conducted between August 2019 and September 2020. Four feedback and validation workshops were held in December 2019 and April-June 2021. SETTING Korogocho and Viwandani urban slums in Nairobi, Kenya. RESULTS The socioe-conomic status of individuals and their families, such as poverty and lack of health insurance, interact with community-level factors like poor infrastructure, limited availability of health facilities and insecurity; and health system factors such as limited facility opening hours, health providers' attitudes and skills and limited public health resources to limit healthcare access and perpetuate health inequities. Limited involvement in decision-making processes by service providers and other key stakeholders was identified as a major challenge with significant implications on how limited health system resources are managed. CONCLUSION Despite many targeted interventions to improve the health and well-being of the urban poor, slum residents are still unable to obtain quality healthcare because of persistent and new barriers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In a devolved health system, paying attention to health services managers' abilities to assess and respond to population health needs is vital. The limited use of existing accountability mechanisms requires attention to ensure that the mechanisms enhance, rather than limit, access to health services for the urban slum residents. The uniqueness of poor urban settings also requires in-depth and focused attention to social determinants of health within these contexts. To address individual, community and system-level barriers to quality healthcare in this and related settings and expand access to health services for all, multisectoral strategies tailored to each population group are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lyagamula Kisia
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Martin Atela
- Peterhouse, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Research & Policy Unit, Partnership for African Social and Governance Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter M Kibe
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
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Aktar B, Alam W, Ali S, Awal A, Bayoh M, Chumo I, Contay Y, Conteh A, Dean L, Dobson S, Edstrom J, Elsey H, Farnaz N, Garimella S, Gray L, Gupte J, Hawkins K, Hollihead B, Josyula KL, Kabaria C, Karuga R, Kimani J, Leyland AH, Te Lintelo D, Mansaray B, MacCarthy J, MacGregor H, Mberu B, Muturi N, Okoth L, Otiso L, Ozano K, Parray A, Phillips-Howard P, Rao V, Rashid S, Raven J, Refell F, Saidu S, Sobhan S, Saligram PS, Sesay S, Theobald S, Tolhurst R, Tubb P, Waldman L, Wariutu J, Whittaker L, Wurie H. How to prevent and address safeguarding concerns in global health research programmes: practice, process and positionality in marginalised spaces. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 5:bmjgh-2019-002253. [PMID: 32409330 PMCID: PMC7228499 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2019-002253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Safeguarding is rapidly rising up the international development agenda, yet literature on safeguarding in related research is limited. This paper shares processes and practice relating to safeguarding within an international research consortium (the ARISE hub, known as ARISE). ARISE aims to enhance accountability and improve the health and well-being of marginalised people living and working in informal urban spaces in low-income and middle-income countries (Bangladesh, India, Kenya and Sierra Leone). Our manuscript is divided into three key sections. We start by discussing the importance of safeguarding in global health research and consider how thinking about vulnerability as a relational concept (shaped by unequal power relations and structural violence) can help locate fluid and context specific safeguarding risks within broader social systems. We then discuss the different steps undertaken in ARISE to develop a shared approach to safeguarding: sharing institutional guidelines and practice; facilitating a participatory process to agree a working definition of safeguarding and joint understandings of vulnerabilities, risks and mitigation strategies and share experiences; developing action plans for safeguarding. This is followed by reflection on our key learnings including how safeguarding, ethics and health and safety concerns overlap; the challenges of referral and support for safeguarding concerns within frequently underserved informal urban spaces; and the importance of reflective practice and critical thinking about power, judgement and positionality and the ownership of the global narrative surrounding safeguarding. We finish by situating our learning within debates on decolonising science and argue for the importance of an iterative, ongoing learning journey that is critical, reflective and inclusive of vulnerable people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bachera Aktar
- BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Dhaka District, Bangladesh
| | - Wafa Alam
- BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Dhaka District, Bangladesh
| | - Samiha Ali
- BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Dhaka District, Bangladesh
| | - Abdul Awal
- BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Dhaka District, Bangladesh
| | - Margaret Bayoh
- Federation of Urban and Rural Poor, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Ivy Chumo
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Yirah Contay
- Federation of Urban and Rural Poor, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Abu Conteh
- Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre, Njala University, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Laura Dean
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Skye Dobson
- Slum Dwellers International, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jerker Edstrom
- Institute of Development Studies, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, UK
| | - Helen Elsey
- Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Nadia Farnaz
- BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Dhaka District, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Jaideep Gupte
- Institute of Development Studies, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, UK
| | - Kate Hawkins
- Pamoja Communications, Brighton and Hove, United Kingdom
| | - Beth Hollihead
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | | - Joseph Kimani
- Slum and Shack Dwellers International Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Dolf Te Lintelo
- Institute of Development Studies, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, UK
| | - Bintu Mansaray
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Western Area, Sierra Leone
| | - Joseph MacCarthy
- Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre, Njala University, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Hayley MacGregor
- Institute of Development Studies, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, UK
| | - Blessing Mberu
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - Kim Ozano
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ateeb Parray
- BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Dhaka District, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Sabina Rashid
- BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Dhaka District, Bangladesh
| | - Joanna Raven
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Samuel Saidu
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Western Area, Sierra Leone
| | - Shafinaz Sobhan
- BRAC University James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Dhaka District, Bangladesh
| | | | - Samira Sesay
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Western Area, Sierra Leone
| | - Sally Theobald
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rachel Tolhurst
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Phil Tubb
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Linda Waldman
- Institute of Development Studies, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, UK
| | - Jane Wariutu
- Slum and Shack Dwellers International Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lana Whittaker
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Haja Wurie
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Western Area, Sierra Leone
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11
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Harris B, Ajisola M, Alam RM, Watkins JA, Arvanitis TN, Bakibinga P, Chipwaza B, Choudhury NN, Kibe P, Fayehun O, Omigbodun A, Owoaje E, Pemba S, Potter R, Rizvi N, Sturt J, Cave J, Iqbal R, Kabaria C, Kalolo A, Kyobutungi C, Lilford RJ, Mashanya T, Ndegese S, Rahman O, Sayani S, Yusuf R, Griffiths F. Mobile consulting as an option for delivering healthcare services in low-resource settings in low- and middle-income countries: A mixed-methods study. Digit Health 2021; 7:20552076211033425. [PMID: 34777849 PMCID: PMC8580492 DOI: 10.1177/20552076211033425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Remote or mobile consulting is being promoted to strengthen health systems, deliver universal health coverage and facilitate safe clinical communication during coronavirus disease 2019 and beyond. We explored whether mobile consulting is a viable option for communities with minimal resources in low- and middle-income countries. METHODS We reviewed evidence published since 2018 about mobile consulting in low- and middle-income countries and undertook a scoping study (pre-coronavirus disease) in two rural settings (Pakistan and Tanzania) and five urban slums (Kenya, Nigeria and Bangladesh), using policy/document review, secondary analysis of survey data (from the urban sites) and thematic analysis of interviews/workshops with community members, healthcare workers, digital/telecommunications experts, mobile consulting providers, and local and national decision-makers. Project advisory groups guided the study in each country. RESULTS We reviewed four empirical studies and seven reviews, analysed data from 5322 urban slum households and engaged with 424 stakeholders in rural and urban sites. Regulatory frameworks are available in each country. Mobile consulting services are operating through provider platforms (n = 5-17) and, at the community level, some direct experience of mobile consulting with healthcare workers using their own phones was reported - for emergencies, advice and care follow-up. Stakeholder willingness was high, provided challenges are addressed in technology, infrastructure, data security, confidentiality, acceptability and health system integration. Mobile consulting can reduce affordability barriers and facilitate care-seeking practices. CONCLUSIONS There are indications of readiness for mobile consulting in communities with minimal resources. However, wider system strengthening is needed to bolster referrals, specialist services, laboratories and supply chains to fully realise the continuity of care and responsiveness that mobile consulting services offer, particularly during/beyond coronavirus disease 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Motunrayo Ajisola
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of the Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Raisa Meher Alam
- Centre for Health, Population and Development, Independent University Bangladesh, Bangladesh
| | | | | | | | - Beatrice Chipwaza
- St Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences, Tanzania
| | | | - Peter Kibe
- African Population and Health Research Center, Kenya
| | - Olufunke Fayehun
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of the Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Akinyinka Omigbodun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Eme Owoaje
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Senga Pemba
- St Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences, Tanzania
| | - Rachel Potter
- Clinical Trials Unit Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, University of Warwick, UK
| | - Narjis Rizvi
- Community Health Sciences Department, Aga Khan University, Pakistan
| | - Jackie Sturt
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, King's College London, UK
| | | | - Romaina Iqbal
- Community Health Sciences Department, Aga Khan University, Pakistan
| | | | - Albino Kalolo
- St Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences, Tanzania
| | | | - Richard J Lilford
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Titus Mashanya
- St Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences, Tanzania
| | - Sylvester Ndegese
- St Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences, Tanzania
| | - Omar Rahman
- University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, Bangladesh
| | - Saleem Sayani
- Aga Khan Development Network Digital Health Resource Centre (Asia and Africa), Aga Khan University, Pakistan
| | - Rita Yusuf
- Centre for Health, Population and Development, Independent University Bangladesh, Bangladesh
| | - Frances Griffiths
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, UK.,Centre for Health Policy, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
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12
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Ahmed SAKS, Ajisola M, Azeem K, Bakibinga P, Chen YF, Choudhury NN, Fayehun O, Griffiths F, Harris B, Kibe P, Lilford RJ, Omigbodun A, Rizvi N, Sartori J, Smith S, Watson SI, Wilson R, Yeboah G, Aujla N, Azam SI, Diggle PJ, Gill P, Iqbal R, Kabaria C, Kisia L, Kyobutungi C, Madan JJ, Mberu B, Mohamed SF, Nazish A, Odubanjo O, Osuh ME, Owoaje E, Oyebode O, Porto de Albuquerque J, Rahman O, Tabani K, Taiwo OJ, Tregonning G, Uthman OA, Yusuf R. Impact of the societal response to COVID-19 on access to healthcare for non-COVID-19 health issues in slum communities of Bangladesh, Kenya, Nigeria and Pakistan: results of pre-COVID and COVID-19 lockdown stakeholder engagements. BMJ Glob Health 2020; 5:e003042. [PMID: 32819917 PMCID: PMC7443197 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-003042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With COVID-19, there is urgency for policymakers to understand and respond to the health needs of slum communities. Lockdowns for pandemic control have health, social and economic consequences. We consider access to healthcare before and during COVID-19 with those working and living in slum communities. METHODS In seven slums in Bangladesh, Kenya, Nigeria and Pakistan, we explored stakeholder perspectives and experiences of healthcare access for non-COVID-19 conditions in two periods: pre-COVID-19 and during COVID-19 lockdowns. RESULTS Between March 2018 and May 2020, we engaged with 860 community leaders, residents, health workers and local authority representatives. Perceived common illnesses in all sites included respiratory, gastric, waterborne and mosquitoborne illnesses and hypertension. Pre-COVID, stakeholders described various preventive, diagnostic and treatment services, including well-used antenatal and immunisation programmes and some screening for hypertension, tuberculosis, HIV and vectorborne disease. In all sites, pharmacists and patent medicine vendors were key providers of treatment and advice for minor illnesses. Mental health services and those addressing gender-based violence were perceived to be limited or unavailable. With COVID-19, a reduction in access to healthcare services was reported in all sites, including preventive services. Cost of healthcare increased while household income reduced. Residents had difficulty reaching healthcare facilities. Fear of being diagnosed with COVID-19 discouraged healthcare seeking. Alleviators included provision of healthcare by phone, pharmacists/drug vendors extending credit and residents receiving philanthropic or government support; these were inconsistent and inadequate. CONCLUSION Slum residents' ability to seek healthcare for non-COVID-19 conditions has been reduced during lockdowns. To encourage healthcare seeking, clear communication is needed about what is available and whether infection control is in place. Policymakers need to ensure that costs do not escalate and unfairly disadvantage slum communities. Remote consulting to reduce face-to-face contact and provision of mental health and gender-based violence services should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed A K Shifat Ahmed
- Centre for Health, Population and Development, Independent University Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Motunrayo Ajisola
- National Institute for Health Research Project, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Kehkashan Azeem
- Community Health Sciences Department, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Yen-Fu Chen
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Olufunke Fayehun
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Frances Griffiths
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Centre for Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Bronwyn Harris
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Peter Kibe
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Richard J Lilford
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Akinyinka Omigbodun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Narjis Rizvi
- Community Health Sciences Department, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jo Sartori
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Simon Smith
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Samuel I Watson
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ria Wilson
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Godwin Yeboah
- Institute for Global Sustainable Development, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Navneet Aujla
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Syed Iqbal Azam
- Community Health Sciences Department, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Peter J Diggle
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Paramjit Gill
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Romaina Iqbal
- Community Health Sciences Department, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Lyagamula Kisia
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Jason J Madan
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Blessing Mberu
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shukri F Mohamed
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Ahsana Nazish
- Community Health Sciences Department, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Mary E Osuh
- Department of Periodontology and Community Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Eme Owoaje
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Oyinlola Oyebode
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Omar Rahman
- University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Komal Tabani
- Community Health Sciences Department, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Olalekan John Taiwo
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Grant Tregonning
- Institute for Global Sustainable Development, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Olalekan A Uthman
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Rita Yusuf
- Centre for Health, Population and Development, Independent University Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Griffiths F, Watkins JA, Huxley C, Harris B, Cave J, Pemba S, Chipwaza B, Lilford R, Ajisola M, Arvanitis TN, Bakibinga P, Billah M, Choudhury N, Davies D, Fayehun O, Kabaria C, Iqbal R, Omigbodun A, Owoaje E, Rahman O, Sartori J, Sayani S, Tabani K, Yusuf R, Sturt J. Mobile consulting (mConsulting) and its potential for providing access to quality healthcare for populations living in low-resource settings of low- and middle-income countries. Digit Health 2020; 6:2055207620919594. [PMID: 32341793 PMCID: PMC7175047 DOI: 10.1177/2055207620919594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The poorest populations of the world lack access to quality healthcare. We defined the key components of consulting via mobile technology (mConsulting), explored whether mConsulting can fill gaps in access to quality healthcare for poor and spatially marginalised populations (specifically rural and slum populations) of low- and middle-income countries, and considered the implications of its take-up. Methods We utilised realist methodology. First, we undertook a scoping review of mobile health literature and searched for examples of mConsulting. Second, we formed our programme theories and identified potential benefits and hazards for deployment of mConsulting for poor and spatially marginalised populations. Finally, we tested our programme theories against existing frameworks and identified published evidence on how and why these benefits/hazards are likely to accrue. Results We identified the components of mConsulting, including their characteristics and range. We discuss the implications of mConsulting for poor and spatially marginalised populations in terms of competent care, user experience, cost, workforce, technology, and the wider health system. Conclusions For the many dimensions of mConsulting, how it is structured and deployed will make a difference to the benefits and hazards of its use. There is a lack of evidence of the impact of mConsulting in populations that are poor and spatially marginalised, as most research on mConsulting has been undertaken where quality healthcare exists. We suggest that mConsulting could improve access to quality healthcare for these populations and, with attention to how it is deployed, potential hazards for the populations and wider health system could be mitigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Griffiths
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, UK.,Centre for Health Policy, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | | | | | - Bronwyn Harris
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, UK.,Centre for Health Policy, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | | | - Senga Pemba
- St Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences, Tanzania
| | - Beatrice Chipwaza
- St Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences, Tanzania
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - David Davies
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Omar Rahman
- Independent University Bangladesh, Bangladesh
| | - Jo Sartori
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, UK
| | | | | | - Rita Yusuf
- Independent University Bangladesh, Bangladesh
| | - Jackie Sturt
- The Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, UK
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