Improving PMT Functionality in Public Health Facilities for Better Utilization of Data: A Qualitative Study in the Sidama Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract
Introduction: Although the importance of performance monitoring team in the Ethiopian healthcare delivery system cannot be overstated, there is a paucity of literature on the enablers and obstacles of PMT functionality. Therefore, the present study aims to explore the facilitators and barriers to PMT functionality in public health care delivery systems to improve data quality and information usage in the Sidama Region of southern Ethiopia.
Methods: Using a qualitative phenomenological research approach, the data were collected through in-depth interviews with experienced, trained health professionals. A total of 37 professionals, who are working on health information management systems (HIMS) and have first-hand experience, were interviewed face-to-face using a semi-structured interview guide. The transcript form of interview data was transcribed first by hand and then into a computer open-code file. Emerging themes were refined twice by engaging additional transdisciplinary team members. Preliminary findings were also validated by workshop participants, who came from the targated woreda/district and regional health bureaus.
Results: The study identified several facilitators and barriers to PMT functionality. The identified key facilitators to be considred are: Input and process-related aspects; PMT structure, budgeting and other resources, capacity-building-related, and availability of PMT guideline. On the otherhand, barriers such as PMT member turnover, a lack of funding and other resources, a lack of PMT guidelines and their supply, a lack of training and other motivating concerns, PMT logbook formats, and a lack of clear appraisal and accountability framework guidelines were noted.
Conclusion and Recommendations: Several interfering factors with PMT operations were identified. Creating a sense of data ownership, looking towards strategies to retain workers, improving health information system budgets and supplies, availing of PMT guidelines, modifying logbook forms, and building an accountability framework are are found to be essential interfering factors. [Ethiop. J. Health Dev. 2022;36 (SI-1)]
Keywords: Performance, Monitoring, Team, Functionality