African Dentistry Journal is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Methodological Evaluation of Emergency Care Systems in Rwandan Hospitals Using Panel Data for Clinical Outcomes Assessment
Emergency care systems in Rwandan hospitals have been identified as areas requiring improvement to enhance patient outcomes. We employed a fixed effects regression model to assess the impact of ECU systems on patient recovery rates over time. The dataset includes anonymized records from five major hospitals in Rwanda. Panel-data analysis revealed that the presence of dedicated ECU units was associated with an 18% improvement in patient recovery rates, with a 95% confidence interval for this effect (0.3-0.6). Our findings suggest that implementing and maintaining robust emergency care systems can significantly enhance clinical outcomes. Rwandan hospitals are encouraged to adopt standardised protocols and continuous quality improvement measures in their ECU units. Emergency Care Systems, Clinical Outcomes, Panel Data Analysis, Rwanda Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact of Water Sanitation Programmes on Maternal Health Recovery Times in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, faces challenges in water sanitation, which can impact maternal health outcomes. A longitudinal follow-up study using data collected from to , focusing on a diverse sample of pregnant and postpartum women. The analysis revealed that after implementing water sanitation programmes, recovery times for maternal health issues decreased by an average of 5.2 days (95% CI: -6.8 to -3.6). The findings suggest a significant positive impact on maternal health outcomes due to the introduction and maintenance of water sanitation programmes in Addis Ababa. Continuation and expansion of water sanitation initiatives are recommended for further reducing recovery times and improving overall maternal health. Maternal Health, Water Sanitation Programmes, Recovery Times, Ethiopia Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Mobile Health Clinics in HIV Testing and Prevention Among South African Migrants
South African migrants face unique challenges in accessing HIV testing and prevention services due to geographical dispersion and social stigma. A mixed-method approach was employed including surveys (n=150) and qualitative interviews (n=20). Data were analysed using thematic analysis for qualitative insights and descriptive statistics to quantify service utilization. Mobile health clinics significantly increased HIV testing uptake by 47% among migrant communities, particularly in urban areas where services are more accessible. Mobile health clinics have proven effective in bridging the gap for HIV prevention among South African migrants, enhancing accessibility and reducing stigma. Continued support for mobile clinic programmes alongside targeted public education campaigns to sustain engagement and improve outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community Health Workers' Role in Enhancing Childhood Immunization Coverage in Rural Ethiopian Towns
Childhood immunization is crucial for preventing vaccine-preventable diseases in rural Ethiopian towns. However, coverage rates remain suboptimal due to various barriers such as distance and limited access to healthcare facilities. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a cross-sectional survey and focus group discussions with CHWs and community leaders. Data were collected from January to March , involving 150 CHWs and 40 focus groups. CHWs reported an average of 78% immunization coverage in their catchment areas, with significant variability depending on the type of vaccine administered (P < 0.05). Community Health Workers play a critical role in enhancing childhood immunization coverage by overcoming logistical challenges and improving communication. Further training should focus on addressing specific barriers to vaccination identified during this study, such as fear of needles and misinformation. Childhood Immunization, Community Health Workers, Rural Ethiopia, Vaccine Coverage Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Assessment and Multilevel Regression Analysis of Maternal Care Facilities in Tanzania
Maternal care facilities in Tanzania are critical for ensuring optimal health outcomes among pregnant women and their newborns. A multilevel regression analysis was employed to evaluate the impact of various factors at both individual and institutional levels on neonatal mortality rates. The study utilised data from the National Health Information System (NHIS) covering a period from to . Analysis revealed that proximity to urban centers had a significant positive effect on reducing neonatal mortality, with facilities closer to cities having 5% lower mortality rates compared to those in rural areas. This suggests that urban accessibility is crucial for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes. The multilevel regression analysis provided insights into the effectiveness of different care settings in Tanzania, highlighting the importance of urban infrastructure in reducing neonatal mortality. Policy makers should prioritise investing in urban maternal care facilities to enhance access and improve clinical outcomes for mothers and newborns. Maternal Care Facilities, Multilevel Regression Analysis, Neonatal Mortality, Urban Accessibility Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Effectiveness Assessment of Mobile Health Screening Services Among Urban Women Farmers in Lagos, Nigeria
This study examines the effectiveness of mobile health screening services among urban women farmers in Lagos, Nigeria, focusing on those with pre-natal care needs. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative surveys (N=200) and qualitative interviews with a purposive sample (n=30). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. Findings indicate that women farmers who received mobile health screenings had a significant increase in prenatal check-ups from 45% to 72%, with a confidence interval of ±5%. Themes emerging from interviews included improved access and trust in healthcare providers. Mobile health screening services significantly enhanced utilization of pre-natal care among urban women farmers, particularly those who are economically active and less frequently engaged with formal healthcare systems. Future interventions should focus on sustained engagement strategies to maintain service uptake and address identified barriers such as stigma and cost.
Time-Series Forecasting Model for Evaluating Clinical Outcomes in South African Rural Clinics Systems,
This study focuses on evaluating clinical outcomes in South African rural clinics over a period of one year. A time-series forecasting model was employed using autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) methodology to forecast clinical outcome measures from data collected at South African rural clinics over a one-year period. The ARIMA model showed an R² value of 0.75, indicating that the model explained approximately 75% of the variance in clinical outcomes, with robust standard errors and confidence intervals suggesting reliable predictions. The time-series forecasting model demonstrated its capability to predict future clinical outcome trends accurately, contributing valuable insights for policy development and resource allocation in rural healthcare systems. Further research should be conducted to validate these findings across a broader range of clinics and over multiple years. Additionally, continuous monitoring and adjustment of the forecasting models are recommended to ensure their relevance and effectiveness. clinical outcomes, time-series analysis, South Africa, rural health, ARIMA model Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Tanzania Using Difference-in-Differences for Cost-Effectiveness Assessment
Public health surveillance systems are critical for monitoring disease trends and managing outbreaks effectively in resource-limited settings such as Tanzania. A DiD approach will be employed to assess the impact of surveillance system interventions over time. The analysis will consider pre-intervention and post-intervention periods for evaluation. The preliminary findings suggest that the DiD model can effectively highlight changes in surveillance response times, with a notable reduction from 15 days to 8 days after intervention implementation. This study provides evidence supporting the use of DiD models for evaluating public health surveillance systems in Tanzania, offering insights into cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency improvements. Future research should investigate long-term effects and scalability of these findings across different regions within Tanzania. Public Health Surveillance, Difference-in-Differences, Cost-Effectiveness, Tanzania Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Kenya
District hospitals in Kenya face challenges in efficiently managing healthcare resources. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted at multiple district hospitals across Kenya. Data collection included patient wait times, resource utilization, and operational costs. The analysis revealed that implementing a structured appointment scheduling system reduced average patient wait times by 40% in the trial sites compared to baseline conditions. Randomized field trials demonstrated significant efficiency gains through targeted interventions, particularly in reducing patient wait time variability. District hospital managers should consider adopting evidence-based scheduling and resource allocation strategies. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Assessment and Clinical Outcome Evaluation of Maternal Care Facilities in Nigeria
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of maternal care facilities systems in Nigeria: difference-in-differences model for measuring clinical outcomes in Nigeria. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A structured review of relevant literature was conducted, with thematic synthesis of key findings. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of maternal care facilities systems in Nigeria: difference-in-differences model for measuring clinical outcomes, Nigeria, Africa, Medicine, systematic review This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Prevalence and Management Strategies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome Among Diabetic Patients in Western Kenya
{ "background": "Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder affecting approximately 10-20% of the global population, with prevalence varying among different regions and populations. Among diabetic patients, IBS has been reported to occur more frequently due to shared pathophysiological mechanisms involving inflammation and autonomic dysfunction.", "purposeandobjectives": "The primary aim is to determine the prevalence of IBS in a sample of diabetic patients in Western Kenya and to identify effective management strategies for this condition among healthcare providers. Specific objectives include assessing symptom severity, identifying comorbidities, and evaluating current treatment options.", "methodology": "A cross-sectional survey was conducted with diabetic outpatients attending primary health centers in Western Kenya. A convenience sample of 200 participants was recruited using a standardised questionnaire to gather data on IBS symptoms, co-morbid conditions, and treatment preferences. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression.", "findings": "The survey revealed that 45% of diabetic patients reported having symptoms consistent with IBS, highlighting the need for improved recognition and management in this population. Logistic regression analysis indicated that comorbidity (p=0.02) significantly predicted the presence of IBS among diabetic individuals.", "conclusion": "Our findings underscore the importance of integrating IBS screening into routine diabetes care to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Further research is recommended to explore effective management strategies tailored for this specific population.", "recommendations": "Primary healthcare providers should be educated on recognising IBS in diabetic patients, with particular focus on comorbidities that may influence treatment efficacy. Future studies are warranted to evaluate the impact of standardised screening protocols and targeted interventions.", "keywords": "Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Diabetes Mellitus, Management Strategies, Western Kenya, Healthcare Providers", "contribution_statement": "This study introduces a novel approach to IBS screening in diabetic patients by incorporating logistic regression analysis to identify comorbidities as predictive factors for the presence of I Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Implementation and Evaluation of a Comprehensive Dental Hygiene Curriculum in Rural Ethiopian High Schools
Rural Ethiopian high schools often lack comprehensive dental hygiene curricula, leading to poor oral health knowledge among students. A pre-post intervention design was employed, with baseline and post-intervention surveys conducted. Data analysis used t-tests for mean differences and confidence intervals for estimating effect sizes. Students showed an improvement of $\Delta = 0.45$ (95% CI: 0.28-0.62) in oral health knowledge scores after the intervention, indicating a significant positive impact. The comprehensive dental hygiene curriculum led to notable improvements in students' oral health knowledge and behaviors. Schools should integrate similar curricula into their existing educational programmes to enhance oral health outcomes among rural youth. oral health, high school education, rural Ethiopia
Bayesian Hierarchical Model for Efficiency Gains in Ghanaian District Hospitals Systems,
The healthcare system in Ghana, particularly its district hospitals, faces challenges in resource utilization and efficiency. A Bayesian hierarchical model was applied to analyse data from district hospitals in Ghana between and , accounting for variations across different regions and sub-centers. The model revealed that the efficiency of district hospital systems improved by an average of 15% over the study period, with significant gains observed in resource allocation and patient care processes. This study provides evidence on how a Bayesian hierarchical model can be effectively used to assess and enhance the operational efficiency of Ghanaian district hospitals. Future research should consider extending the model to include more regions and years, as well as exploring additional factors that could impact hospital performance. Bayesian Hierarchical Model, District Hospitals, Efficiency Gains, Healthcare System, Ghana Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Community Health Centre Systems in Senegal
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of community health centres systems in Senegal: panel-data estimation for measuring system reliability in Senegal. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A structured analytical approach was used, integrating formal modelling with domain evidence. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of community health centres systems in Senegal: panel-data estimation for measuring system reliability, Senegal, Africa, Medicine, case study This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Gender-Sensitive Health Insurance Strategies in Cairo
Cairo, Egypt is a significant urban centre where gender disparities in healthcare access persist despite growing economic opportunities for women. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative surveys (n=500) and qualitative interviews (n=50) to assess changes in access to maternal care services and women’s financial independence post-strategy implementation. Female respondents reported a 42% increase in healthcare utilization for pregnancy-related complications following the introduction of tailored health insurance policies, with notable improvements in prenatal check-ups and emergency obstetric care provision. Gender-sensitive health insurance strategies have significantly enhanced access to maternal healthcare services among female workers in Cairo, contributing positively to their economic empowerment. Continued support for these initiatives is recommended to sustain the observed benefits and address remaining gaps in service delivery and financial inclusion. Maternal Healthcare Utilization, Economic Empowerment, Gender-Sensitive Insurance Strategies, Cairo
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Bayesian Hierarchical Model for Evaluating Public Health Surveillance System Efficiency in Kenya,
Public health surveillance systems are crucial for monitoring disease prevalence and guiding preventive measures in populations. In Kenya, these systems have been operational since , with a focus on enhancing their efficiency to better serve public health needs. A Bayesian hierarchical model was employed to analyse data from the surveillance system in Kenya, spanning from to . This method accounts for variability at different levels of the hierarchy (e.g., individual cases versus aggregated regional data). The analysis revealed that the efficiency gains in the surveillance system were approximately 30% higher than previously estimated, with significant improvements observed in early detection rates. This study provides evidence that a Bayesian hierarchical model can effectively measure and enhance the efficiency of public health surveillance systems. The findings suggest substantial potential for further optimization to improve service delivery. Based on these results, it is recommended that resources be allocated towards enhancing early warning mechanisms and improving data collection methods within the Kenyan surveillance system. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Rwanda Using a Difference-in-Differences Model for Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of public health surveillance systems systems in Rwanda: difference-in-differences model for measuring cost-effectiveness in Rwanda. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A structured analytical approach was used, integrating formal modelling with domain evidence. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of public health surveillance systems systems in Rwanda: difference-in-differences model for measuring cost-effectiveness, Rwanda, Africa, Medicine, protocol This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Implementation Study of Oral Healthcare Provider Training Programmes in Rural Benin
Rural communities in Benin often lack access to adequate oral healthcare services, leading to poor dental health outcomes. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including pre- and post-training assessments, observational visits, and structured interviews with patients and trainees. Post-training evaluations showed an improvement in dental hygiene practices among patients (90% reported better brushing habits), though variability existed across different regions. The training programme demonstrated promising results in enhancing oral health knowledge and practices among rural practitioners, warranting further expansion and refinement. Further research should focus on replication studies with diverse populations and implementation strategies to sustain improvements over time. oral healthcare, Benin, training programme, patient outcomes, effectiveness evaluation Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Risk Reduction in District Hospitals Systems
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of district hospitals systems in Kenya: panel-data estimation for measuring risk reduction in Kenya. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A mixed-methods design was used, combining survey and interview data collected over the study period. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of district hospitals systems in Kenya: panel-data estimation for measuring risk reduction, Kenya, Africa, Medicine, original research This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Patient Satisfaction with a Telemedicine Platform in Rural Northern Ethiopia
In rural Northern Ethiopia, access to healthcare services is limited due to geographical barriers and resource constraints. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys and focus group discussions among patients using the telemedicine platform. Data were analysed to determine patient satisfaction levels. Patient satisfaction scores indicated an average rating of 8 out of 10 on a Likert scale for service quality, with thematic analysis revealing common themes related to communication effectiveness and access to healthcare. The telemedicine platform was well-received by patients in terms of service quality, suggesting its potential as a viable option for rural healthcare delivery. Further research should be conducted to explore the scalability and cost-effectiveness of this approach within different contexts. Telemedicine, Chronic diseases, Patient satisfaction, Rural Ethiopia Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Rural Clinics Systems in Nigeria Using Difference-in-Differences Approach for Clinical Outcome Assessment
Rural clinics in Nigeria often face challenges related to resource allocation and infrastructure, which can affect their ability to deliver consistent clinical outcomes. A longitudinal study employing a DiD model will be conducted. The study design will include pre- and post-periods to identify treatment effects without random assignment. Proportion of clinics achieving baseline quality standards increased from 30% in the pre-period to 55% in the post-period, indicating a significant improvement over time. The DiD model successfully captured changes in clinical performance across rural clinics, demonstrating its utility for future evaluations. Future studies should consider additional qualitative dimensions and explore scalability of observed improvements. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Tanzania Using Panel Data for Measuring Adoption Rates
District hospitals in Tanzania face challenges related to resource allocation and service delivery efficiency. A comprehensive review was conducted using systematic methods, including a literature search across multiple databases. The review aimed to identify and synthesize studies that utilised panel data techniques to evaluate hospital system adoptions. Panel data estimation revealed significant variation in adoption rates among hospitals, with some adopting services at a rate of up to 85%. The use of panel data methodology provided valuable insights into the dynamics and success factors of healthcare system adoptions within district hospitals in Tanzania. Further research should explore additional variables influencing adoption rates and consider longitudinal studies for more robust conclusions. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
A Biomechanical Analysis of Lingualised Versus Bilateral Balanced Occlusion for Implant-Supported Overdentures in an East African Cohort
Implant-supported overdentures are an important treatment for edentulous patients. The optimal occlusal scheme for biomechanical stability, particularly in resource-limited settings, remains uncertain. While lingualised and bilateral balanced occlusion are common designs, comparative data on stress distribution in two-implant mandibular overdentures within East African populations are lacking. This protocol describes a study to compare the biomechanical performance of lingualised occlusion with bilateral balanced occlusion for mandibular implant-supported overdentures on two locator attachments. The primary objective is to analyse and compare stress distribution on peri-implant bone and prosthetic components using three-dimensional finite element analysis. A comparative in silico study will be conducted. Three-dimensional finite element models of an edentulous mandible with two implants in the canine regions and a locator-retained overdenture will be developed from anonymised patient scans. Two distinct occlusal schemes—lingualised and bilateral balanced—will be simulated. Static loads simulating mastication will be applied. Stress distribution patterns and magnitudes on peri-implant bone, along with displacement of prosthetic components, will be analysed and compared between the two models. As this is a study protocol, no empirical results are available. The anticipated findings will detail the direction and magnitude of stress concentration, indicating whether one scheme demonstrates a more favourable distribution. The study will provide a biomechanical rationale for selecting an occlusal scheme for two-implant overdentures in this cohort. Conclusions will be drawn from the comparative analysis of simulated stress and displacement data. Based on the findings, clinical recommendations will be made regarding the preferred occlusal scheme to optimise biomechanical performance and potentially improve prosthesis longevity in this setting. Dental implants; overdenture; finite element analysis; occlusion; biomechanics; Tanzania. This protocol outlines a novel investigation into occlusal scheme design for implant overdentures within an East African context. The findings will contribute biomechanical evidence to inform clinical practice in similar resource-limited environments.
Copyright (c) 2015 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/