Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)

Enhancing tuberculosis (TB) case detection among hospitalized patients through lay health worker led screening: a before-and-after study in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

This study in South Africa tested whether trained lay health workers could help find more tuberculosis (TB) cases in hospitals by doing regular screening and using better testing tools. Compared to the year before, the number of patients diagnosed with TB doubled (from 7.5% to 15%) and fewer people died in the hospital. The results show that using lay health workers for TB … [Read more...] about Enhancing tuberculosis (TB) case detection among hospitalized patients through lay health worker led screening: a before-and-after study in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Kenya introduced Primary Health Care Networks (PCNs) to improve basic health services. This study looked at how well the PCNs are being used in five counties. While the idea had strong support from both experts and leaders, putting it into practice faced several challenges. Key parts of the program, like forming health teams and using digital tools, were not fully carried out. … [Read more...] about Examining the Implementation Experience of Primary Health Care Networks (PCNs) in Kenya: A Qualitative Study

This study in Ethiopia compared two ways of giving tuberculosis (TB) preventive treatment to children at risk: one at home and one at a health facility. Home-based care, provided by community health workers, was cheaper for both the health system and families. It also helped more children start treatment in most cases. While home visits may not fully replace clinic care, … [Read more...] about Cost and cost-effectiveness of pediatric home-based versus facility-based TB Preventive Treatment in Ethiopia (CHIP-TB)

This research looked at how HIV patients are involved in care at the Nancholi Youth Organization (NAYO) in Blantyre, Malawi. The study focused on how care is centered around the patient, how communities help support this care, and the challenges involved. It found that NAYO uses a community-based approach, relying heavily on volunteers to connect patients with healthcare … [Read more...] about Exploring the involvement of HIV patients in person-centred care: The case of Nancholi Youth Organization (NAYO) in Blantyre, Malawi

This study looked at how health workers in Malawi feel about using a mix of digital and face-to-face training to improve their skills in HIV testing programs. Interviews showed they liked the idea of flexible digital learning but still wanted in-person practice and feedback. They also needed help with using digital tools, access to devices, clear communication about training … [Read more...] about Anticipated Acceptability of Blended Learning Among Lay Health Care Workers in Malawi: Qualitative Analysis Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model