Evaluating the Outcomes of Digital Health Solutions for Human Papilloma Virus Vaccination and Cervical Cancer Services in Rwanda: A Mixed- Method Study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in low-and middle-income countries, where access to prevention and screening is often limited. The World Health Organization has called for joint efforts to eradicate cervical cancer, pointing to HPV vaccination, screening, and treatment of cervical cancer. This study assessed the effect of the deployment of digital health solutions on HPV vaccination, cervical cancer screening, and treatment in Rwanda. 

METHODS: A mixed-method approach integrating a descriptive cross-sectional analysis of secondary data with qualitative interviews was used. Microsoft Excel and STATA/SE software version 17.0 were used for data cleaning and analysis. Face-to-face interviews with key informants were conducted. Thematic analysis was performed for qualitative data analysis. 

RESULTS: From 2020 to 2022, the percentage of girls aged 11 to 15 who completed the HPV vaccine series rose from 75 to 80%, an improvement that coincided with the introduction of the e-tracker for HPV vaccination records in 2022. The rate of women undergoing cervical cancer screening rose from 1 to 16% during the five-year period from 2018 to 2023. A notable surge occurred in 2020, following the adoption of the Open Medical Record System (OpenMRS) in cervical cancer service delivery. Interviews with key informants highlighted the pivotal role of digital health tools in enhancing HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening coverage. 

CONCLUSION: This study highlights the beneficial effects of digital health solutions on HPV vaccination and cervical cancer services in Rwanda. The results set a compelling example and provide insightful guidance for other healthcare systems in the region.