Barriers and Enhancers of Data Quality in Health Sector of Somali Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Health data quality and use remain weak within the health sectors of low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Health data quality is so important to improve health management and prevailing practices. However, it is not satisfactory in the health sector of Ethiopia, including in public health facilities of Somali Regional State. Thus, this qualitative study aimed to explore the potential barriers and enhancers of health data quality in the health sector of Somali Regional State, Ethiopia.
Methods: A qualitative case study design with an in-depth interview technique was conducted as part of the baseline assessment of an implementation research in Jigjiga Woreda of Somali regional State, Ethiopia. The study was conducted in three randomly selected public health facilities, Woreda Health Office and Somali Regional Health Bureau. Data were collected from 17 purposively selected key informants using in-depth interviews; and observations of facilities and health administration units. Data were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using thematic content analysis to identify pre-defined themes. Open code version 3.4 was used for coding data and categorizing codes as thematic areas to identify barriers and enhancers of data quality in sector.
Results: Behavioral and technique-related factors were the most dominant barriers to data quality in the study setting. Of these, low commitment to data recording and compilation, negligence of the workforce on recording, lack and inadequate training on Health Information System, low value given to data, and low motivation of the workers. Additionally, lack of accountability for data recording and documentation, lack of Performance Monitoring Team commitment and regular meetings, and lack of regular supervision from PMT and immediate supervisors were the main institutional barriers to data quality in the region.
Conclusions: Behavioral and technique-related factors were the most dominant barriers to ensuring data quality in the study setting. Thus, tailored training on data recording and documentation should be given to the workers; and PMT should give support and feedback to the workforce, continuously. It is also relevant to design an intervention strategy to intervene in the contextual problems regularly and take immediate corrective action.