Research Article
Analysis of Trends in Immunization Coverage Inequalities Among Children Aged 12–23 Months in Guinea: Data from Demographic and Health Surveys in 2005, 2012, and 2018
Niouma Nestor Leno*
,
Abdoulaye Maciré Camara,
Daniel William Athanase Leno,
Kadio Jean-Jacques Olivier Kadio,
Moussa Fanta Keita,
Sékou Solano,
Iya Condé,
Sékou Sidate Sylla,
Serge Manitu Mayaka
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
178-188
Received:
28 September 2024
Accepted:
18 October 2024
Published:
13 November 2024
Abstract: Background: The aim of this study was to describe trends in inequalities in full immunization of children aged 12 to 23 months and to identify associated socioeconomic factors. Methods: A secondary analysis was carried out using data from three Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) conducted in 2005, 2012 and 2018 in the Republic of Guinea. The concentration, or Lorenz curve, and associated index were used to measure inequalities over time. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify socioeconomic factors associated with full vaccination of children aged 12 to 23 months. Results: The study found a strongly positive overall concentration index (CI > 0.5) for complete vaccination of children aged 12 to 23 months, indicating inequalities in favor of wealthier households. This inequality decreased in 2012 but increased again in 2018. Children from wealthy families were nearly twice as likely to be fully vaccinated compared to children from very poor families (adjusted OR 1.79, 95% CI: 1.38 - 2.32). Conclusion: This study revealed significant inequalities favoring wealthy families in the use of immunization services by children aged 12 to 23 months in Guinea. It also underscores the need for planning and implementing strategies to reduce these inequalities in access to and use of immunization services.
Abstract: Background: The aim of this study was to describe trends in inequalities in full immunization of children aged 12 to 23 months and to identify associated socioeconomic factors. Methods: A secondary analysis was carried out using data from three Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) conducted in 2005, 2012 and 2018 in the Republic of Guinea. The conc...
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Methodology Article
Achieving Healthcare Value through Care Plan Accountability
John Rezen*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
189-193
Received:
19 September 2024
Accepted:
30 October 2024
Published:
29 November 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20241206.12
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Abstract: U.S. medical costs continue to outpace the GDP despite the introduction of multiple accountable care efforts established to reduce unnecessary expenditures. These increasing costs have a negative impact on patients who are experiencing increased out-of-pocket expenses as well as employers who must shoulder a large part of the healthcare cost burden. While there are multiple societal factors contributing to the rising medical costs, our healthcare system can play a more effective role in addressing this problem. This role begins with fundamental changes to our reimbursement systems placing an emphasis on individual plans of care and adding greater accountability through free market controls. A comprehensive plan of care lays out the roles of care plan participants across medical, social, and behavioral services with a corresponding budget covering all the services provided as well as the expected outcomes from each service. An initial free market control is patient authority to accept or reject the plan of care with a corresponding financial responsibility for compliance in care plan execution. The elements of provider accountability include a public provider performance reporting system across quality, costs and patient satisfaction factors as well as a reimbursement system that incentivizes effective care planning and execution. This shift in focus from incremental care to care planning and execution combined with the institution of pro-competitive and financial accountability measures is expected to bring greater value to healthcare by improving patient outcomes while reducing medical costs.
Abstract: U.S. medical costs continue to outpace the GDP despite the introduction of multiple accountable care efforts established to reduce unnecessary expenditures. These increasing costs have a negative impact on patients who are experiencing increased out-of-pocket expenses as well as employers who must shoulder a large part of the healthcare cost burden...
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Research Article
Challenges of Community Health Nurses During Postnatal Home Visitation in Selected Districts of the Ashanti Region, Ghana
Yvonne Agyeman-Duah*,
Million Bimerew
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
194-200
Received:
31 October 2024
Accepted:
18 November 2024
Published:
29 November 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20241206.13
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Views:
Abstract: Introduction: Efforts have been made to improve maternal and child health care globally, with a focus on promoting postnatal care for mothers and babies. In spite of the known significance of postnatal visits for enhancing maternal and child health care, concerns still exist regarding maternal and infant health care in the Ashanti Region and Ghana as a whole. The study aimed to explore and describe the challenges experienced by community health nurses that may have an impact on postnatal home visitation in selected districts of the Ashanti Region, Ghana. Method: Qualitative research method was used to collect data. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using 15 CHNs. Data were analysed using a thematic content analysis approach. Results: Two main themes and six categories emerged from the overall analysis of the data from the CHNs. One theme emerged based on the objective of the study and the other theme emerged based on the analysis of the responses of the participants. Themes emerged include: challenges of postnatal home visitation and preparation for and responsibilities during postnatal visits. Conclusion: The study concludes that postnatal home visits face significant challenges due to institutional limitations, socio-cultural barriers, and mother-related issues, which can hinder effective care. Additionally, community health nurses (CHNs) strive to provide essential services through preparation, skills application, and ongoing education.
Abstract: Introduction: Efforts have been made to improve maternal and child health care globally, with a focus on promoting postnatal care for mothers and babies. In spite of the known significance of postnatal visits for enhancing maternal and child health care, concerns still exist regarding maternal and infant health care in the Ashanti Region and Ghana ...
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