Investigation of factors influencing data management in district health planning process: a case study of Kibaha town council

Abstract

Background information: Sound and reliable information is the foundation of decision-making across all health system building blocks.Strengthening health information system is a global concern especially in developing countries as data management is reported to be weak.There is a need to explore factors influencing data management in health planning process. Aim of the study: The study aimed to investigate factors influencing data management in the district health planning process in Kibaha town council. Methodology: This study was conducted in Kibaha town council. The study populations were CHPT, CHMT and health workers of public health facilities who are involved in data management at Kibaha town council. The design of the study was cross sectional explorative study using qualitative approach. Sample size was 11 for CHMT and CHP, and 4 for health workers making a total of 15 who were interviewed after reaching saturation point. In-depth interview, observation and documentary review were used as data collection techniques and data collection tools included interview guide and observation checklist. Thematic analysis method was used in data analysis. Results:The results showed several positive factors influencing data management, including knowledge, positive attitude, training, supervision and culture of information use.The findings also revealed several challenges which hinder the effective data management;these include inadequate funding, data collection tools, qualified staffs, supervision, insufficient training, duplication and unfriendliness of data collection tools.A significant link between these challenges and data quality was reported, the interviewees confirmed a positive relationship between these factors influencing data management and health planning in the district as with quality data evidence based planning is possible. Conclusion: This exploratory study identified knowledge, positive attitude, computer use, availability and friendliness of data collection tools, supervision, availability of fund and culture of information use to befactors influencing data management health planning in Kibaha Town Council.The results provided strategies to support in improving data management and HMIS in general.