Effects of Facility-based Malaria surveillance monitoring and evaluation mentorship model on data quality in Kakamega County, Kenya

Abstract

Objectives: This paper aims to describe the impact of the facility-based malaria surveillance monitoring and evaluation (SME) mentorship  model on data quality in Kakamega County, Kenya.

Intervention: Facility-based mentorship for malaria surveillance,  Monitoring and Evaluation

Methods: This is a retrospective study that analysed routine data collected during routine malaria data quality  assessments (mRDQAs) in Kakamega County before and after implementing the facility-based SME mentorship program. The  study assessed data quality indicators, including completeness, timeliness, accuracy, and consistency, through mRDQAs conducted by  trained SME mentors.

Results: A total of 35 SME mentors were trained, and 1,403 healthcare workers were mentored in 225 (100%)  targeted health facilities. The study found significant improvements in data completeness, timeliness, and accuracy following the mentorship program. Timely reporting increased from 96% to 99%, completeness of reports from 96% to 100%. Data accuracy improved  for several key malaria indicators. Cross-checks revealed discrepancies between baseline and round two assessments, with reduced  accuracy in Cross-checks between Laboratory and Pharmacy registers and a significant increase in Artemisinin Combined Therapy (ACT)  stock management log and pharmacy register, suggesting potential overreporting.

Conclusion: The study underscores the positive  effects of facility-based mentorship on malaria data quality through improvements in completeness, timeliness, accuracy, and other data  quality aspects. It acknowledges areas requiring attention, including data consistency and system attributes. It recommends  strengthening data quality through checks, audits, custom tools, and continuous capacitybuilding activities for new and experienced  healthcare workers.