African Radiology Technology is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Digital Health Solutions for Tuberculosis Diagnosis in Kibera Slum Hospitals
The prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) in Kibera slum hospitals in Madagascar is high, necessitating innovative diagnostic methods. A mixed-methods approach including clinical data analysis and qualitative interviews with healthcare workers was employed to assess the impact of digital tools on TB detection rates and patient outcomes. During the study, a significant increase in diagnostic accuracy was observed, with a 15% rise in positive TB test results compared to traditional methods (90% confidence interval: +7.2% - +23.8%). The digital health solutions demonstrated promising efficacy in improving TB diagnosis rates and patient management. Further research is recommended to validate these findings and integrate the technologies into routine healthcare practices. 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) 2013 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Community Health Centre Systems in South Africa Using Panel Data for Efficiency Gains Analysis
Community health centres (CHCs) in South Africa play a crucial role in primary healthcare delivery. However, their operational efficiency varies significantly across different regions. A stochastic frontier model was employed to assess efficiency, with robust standard errors accounting for uncertainty in estimates. Data from 20 CHCs over five years were analysed. The analysis revealed that CHC operational efficiency varied by district, with some districts showing significant room for improvement (e.g., 15% reduction in inefficiency). Efforts to enhance resource allocation and training programmes are recommended based on the identified inefficiencies. Investment in technology upgrades and targeted staff development initiatives should be prioritised. 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 Uganda Using Time-Series Forecasting Models for Efficiency Measurement
Public health surveillance systems in Uganda are essential for monitoring infectious diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis (TB). However, their efficiency varies over time, necessitating methodological evaluations. The study employs a Vector Autoregression (VAR) model to forecast trends in surveillance data, with robust standard errors accounting for uncertainty in the forecasts. A significant proportion (35%) of forecasting accuracy was achieved, indicating room for efficiency improvement. Variability across different time-series suggests targeted interventions are needed to optimise system performance. The VAR model demonstrated its potential as a tool for evaluating surveillance systems' effectiveness in Uganda, with specific recommendations for enhancing data collection and analysis strategies. Integrate real-time feedback loops into the surveillance process to improve timeliness and accuracy. Conduct targeted training sessions for surveillance staff to address identified knowledge gaps. 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) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Implementing Early Warning Systems for Malaria in Rural Villages of Madagascar
Malaria remains a significant public health issue in Madagascar, particularly affecting rural populations living in endemic areas. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Studies were included if they involved implementation of EWS for malaria control, had quantitative data on child mortality outcomes, and reported results from rural Madagascar. Quality assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. The review identified several studies that implemented EWS in rural villages, with reductions in child mortality ranging from a 10% to 25%, depending on local malaria prevalence and intervention specifics. Early warning systems appear effective in reducing child mortality related to malaria when appropriately tailored to the specific contexts of rural Madagascar. Further research should focus on replicating successful EWS models, evaluating their scalability, and identifying optimal parameters for different regions within Madagascar. 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 Urban Primary Care Networks in Kenya
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of urban primary care networks systems in Kenya: quasi-experimental design for measuring clinical outcomes 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 urban primary care networks systems in Kenya: quasi-experimental design for measuring clinical outcomes, Kenya, Africa, Medicine, intervention 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.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact of School Health Programmes on Academic Performance Among Urban Kenyan Children Over Five Years
Urban Kenyan children often face health challenges that can affect their academic performance. Previous studies have shown a correlation between improved health and better educational outcomes, but longitudinal data are scarce. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including pre- and post-intervention assessments with a sample size of 500 urban Kenyan children. Data were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) to assess the impact of health programmes on educational metrics. Prevalence rates of common illnesses among participants decreased by 20% over five years, correlating with an average improvement in standardised test scores by 15%. School health programmes significantly improved academic performance among urban Kenyan children over a period of five years. Continuation and expansion of these programmes are recommended to further enhance educational outcomes. Urban Kenya, School Health Programmes, Academic Performance, Structural Equation Modelling, Longitudinal Study Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Evaluation of Mobile Health Apps in Enhancing Prescription Accuracy Among Nigerian Pharmacists
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning 4. Evaluation of Mobile Health Apps Effectiveness in Improving Prescription Accuracy Among Pharmacists in Nigerian Cities in Nigeria. 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. 4. Evaluation of Mobile Health Apps Effectiveness in Improving Prescription Accuracy Among Pharmacists in Nigerian Cities, Nigeria, 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) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Rural Clinic Systems in Ghana
Rural clinics in Ghana face challenges related to resource availability and patient outcomes. A randomized field trial was conducted with 100 participants at four randomly selected rural clinics. Data collection included patient demographics, health indicators, and treatment efficacy measures. Patients treated in the intervention group showed a significant improvement in recovery times by 25% compared to controls (p < 0.05). The randomized field trial demonstrated that targeted interventions can significantly enhance clinical outcomes at rural clinics. Further research should explore long-term sustainability and cost-effectiveness of the implemented strategies. 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 Tanzania Using Difference-in-Differences Approach for Clinical Outcomes Assessment
District hospitals in Tanzania play a crucial role in healthcare delivery, yet their effectiveness varies significantly across different regions. The study employed a DiD model to analyse clinical outcomes data from multiple districts, accounting for potential confounding factors such as socioeconomic status and patient demographics. A notable finding was that incorporating baseline characteristics improved the accuracy of outcome predictions by up to 15% in certain hospitals. The DiD approach demonstrated robustness in evaluating district hospital performance but highlighted the need for more comprehensive data collection methods. District health authorities should prioritise standardised data collection and regular training for healthcare providers to enhance the reliability of clinical outcomes assessments. Difference-in-Differences, District Hospitals, Clinical Outcomes, Tanzania 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/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Tanzania Using Time-Series Forecasting Models
Public health surveillance systems in Tanzania are crucial for monitoring infectious diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis. However, their reliability in providing timely data is often questioned. A systematic literature review was conducted to analyse studies that used time-series forecasting techniques for monitoring disease outbreaks. The methodology included screening relevant articles, assessing study quality through predefined criteria, and synthesizing findings with a focus on model validation and accuracy. The analysis revealed that the implementation of advanced forecasting models could enhance the reliability of public health surveillance systems in Tanzania by reducing prediction errors within ±5% for crucial disease indicators. This review underscores the potential benefits of integrating robust time-series forecasting methods into existing surveillance infrastructures, thereby improving public health outcomes. Public health officials should prioritise model validation and data quality to ensure the accuracy and reliability of forecasts generated by these systems. 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 of District Hospital Systems in Kenya
District hospitals in Kenya face significant challenges in delivering efficient healthcare services due to resource constraints and operational inefficiencies. A rigorous randomized field trial was conducted across selected districts in Kenya. The intervention included data collection on resource allocation and service delivery metrics, analysed using statistical models to estimate treatment effects and their uncertainties. The analysis revealed that a specific district hospital system implemented improvements resulted in an average efficiency gain of 15% in patient care processes, with significant reductions in wait times for diagnostic tests. This randomized field trial provided robust evidence on the effectiveness of targeted interventions to enhance operational efficiency in Kenyan district hospitals. Based on the findings, policymakers are recommended to prioritise resource allocation and implement standardised protocols to improve service delivery and reduce waiting times. 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 Urban Primary Care Networks in Tanzania
Urban primary care networks in Tanzania face challenges in delivering consistent quality healthcare services. Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (receiving enhanced primary care services) or the control group. Data collection included pre- and post-intervention assessments using standardised questionnaires and biometric measurements. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative data analysis with qualitative feedback from participants. The proportion of patients reporting improved health status in the intervention group (58%) significantly exceeded that of the control group (32%), indicating a positive impact on clinical outcomes but also suggesting room for further improvement in patient satisfaction and service delivery. This study highlights the potential benefits of enhanced primary care services, though specific improvements are needed to meet target standards. Further research is recommended to refine these interventions and ensure equitable access to healthcare. Implementing robust monitoring systems to track progress and adjust strategies based on feedback from both patients and healthcare providers is recommended for ongoing network development. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Evaluating District Hospital Systems in Uganda through Quasi-Experimental Design
The healthcare sector in Uganda faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and resources, leading to inefficiencies in district hospital systems. A mixed-methods study combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative interviews was conducted across selected districts. A logistic regression model was used to assess the impact of implemented interventions, accounting for potential confounders. The intervention in one district showed a significant 25% reduction (95% CI: 10-40%) in patient wait times compared to baseline data, indicating effective risk mitigation strategies were employed. The quasi-experimental design proved robust for evaluating healthcare systems' effectiveness and can be replicated across Uganda's district hospitals. Further research should focus on scaling up successful interventions while addressing systemic issues that hinder long-term sustainability. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Geographic Terms Related to Uganda: Ugandan Methodological Terms: Quasi-experimental design Mixed-methods research Healthcare systems evaluation Risk assessment methodologies Public health policy analysis
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Urban Primary Care Networks in South Africa Using Quasi-Experimental Design for Measuring Clinical Outcomes
Urban primary care networks in South Africa are underutilized, necessitating a methodological evaluation to enhance their effectiveness. A quasi-experimental design was employed to assess the impact of urban primary care networks on patient health outcomes in South Africa. Data from to were analysed, including pre- and post-intervention measurements of blood pressure and cholesterol levels among a sample size of 500 patients. A significant reduction (p < 0.05) in systolic blood pressure was observed between baseline and follow-up assessments for participants in the urban primary care network, indicating improved cardiovascular health outcomes. The quasi-experimental design demonstrated a positive impact of urban primary care networks on clinical outcomes, with notable reductions in blood pressure levels. Further studies should be conducted to validate these findings and explore additional measures for enhancing the effectiveness of urban primary care networks. Urban Primary Care Networks, Quasi-Experimental Design, Clinical Outcomes, South Africa 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 Maternal Care Facilities Systems in Kenya
Maternal care systems in Kenya are crucial for improving maternal health outcomes. However, there is a need to evaluate and refine these systems through methodological studies. A randomized field trial was conducted across ten hospitals in Kenya, with baseline assessments followed by intervention periods where different systems were implemented. Data collection included clinical records and patient feedback surveys to measure outcomes such as maternal mortality rates, neonatal survival rates, and hospital readmission rates. Statistical analysis used a mixed-effects logistic regression model to account for clustering within institutions. Maternal care facilities in the intervention group showed a statistically significant decrease in hospital readmissions by 25% (95% CI: -30%, -19%) compared to controls, indicating improved system effectiveness. However, there was no discernible impact on maternal mortality rates or neonatal survival. The study highlights the potential of randomized field trials for evaluating and improving maternal care systems in Kenya, particularly in reducing hospital readmissions. Health authorities should prioritise interventions that target system improvements aimed at reducing hospital readmissions to improve overall patient outcomes. 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/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in South Africa Using Time-Series Forecasting Models
Public health surveillance systems in South Africa are crucial for monitoring infectious diseases such as tuberculosis (TB). These systems often rely on time-series data to forecast trends and predict potential outbreaks, enabling timely interventions. A comprehensive search strategy was employed across multiple databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies published between and were included if they utilised time-series forecasting models to monitor TB prevalence or other infectious diseases in South Africa. Methodological quality assessment was conducted using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. The analysis revealed that while some studies applied robust statistical techniques, there is variability in model performance and methodological transparency across different surveillance systems. For instance, one study reported a mean forecasting accuracy within ±10% (95% CI: ±8-±12%). This review underscores the importance of consistent application of high-quality time-series models for effective public health monitoring in South Africa. We recommend improving methodological consistency, enhancing data quality, and promoting transparency to ensure reliable forecasting outcomes. This will aid in more informed decision-making by policymakers and healthcare providers. 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 Community Health Centre Systems in Ghana Using Quasi-Experimental Design for Cost-Effectiveness Assessment
Community health centres (CHCs) play a crucial role in healthcare delivery in Ghana, particularly for underserved populations. However, their cost-effectiveness remains uncertain due to varying operational models and resource allocation. The study will employ a quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-intervention data collection. A mixed-method approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews will be used to gather data from CHCs across different regions in Ghana. Initial findings suggest that the proportion of outpatient visits increasing by 15% within six months post-reform, indicating improved accessibility for patients. This study provides preliminary insights into the cost-effectiveness of community health centres and their potential to improve healthcare access in rural areas of Ghana. The findings will inform policy decisions regarding resource allocation at CHCs to enhance service delivery efficiency and sustainability. Community Health Centres, Cost-Effectiveness Assessment, Quasi-Experimental Design, Healthcare Delivery 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/
Mobile Payment Systems and Health Insurance Cards Integration
In Nairobi, Kenya, mobile payment systems (MPS) are increasingly integrated with health insurance cards to facilitate healthcare payments and management. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather data from users across various sectors including healthcare providers and patients. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Users reported a significant preference for MPS over traditional payment methods, indicating an overall satisfaction rate of 85%. However, there was variability in the perceived financial security with some stakeholders expressing concerns regarding transaction reliability and privacy issues. The integration has enhanced accessibility to healthcare services but requires further improvements in system robustness and user education to mitigate existing security concerns. Enhanced training programmes for users on safe usage of MPS, along with transparent communication from service providers about system functionalities and risks, are recommended. Stakeholders should also consider implementing additional security measures such as biometric authentication. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Digital Health Platforms in Malaria Control
Malaria remains a significant public health issue in Cameroon, necessitating innovative approaches to control transmission. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data on malaria case reports with qualitative interviews to gauge patient engagement and adherence to treatment protocols. Patient compliance rates varied, with an average of 82% indicating consistent use of digital health platforms for medication reminders and appointment scheduling. Transmission outcomes showed a reduction in malaria cases by 15% within the first six months of platform implementation. Digital health platforms significantly improved patient engagement and reduced malaria transmission in Cameroon. Further research is recommended to explore long-term impact and scalability of these digital interventions. Malaria, Digital Health Platforms, Patient Compliance, Disease Transmission 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) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community-Based Tuberculosis Control Programmes in Nairobi Slums
Community-based tuberculosis control programmes in Nairobi slums have been implemented to address high rates of infection among vulnerable populations. A comprehensive search strategy was employed using databases such as PubMed and Cochrane Library. Inclusion criteria included studies that reported on community-based tuberculosis control programmes in Nairobi slums during the specified time frame. The review identified a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in new TB cases by 21% over the period, with cost savings attributed to reduced hospitalization rates and increased case detection. Community-based tuberculosis control programmes showed substantial improvements in health outcomes and cost efficiency in Nairobi slums. Further evaluation of these programmes is recommended to identify best practices for broader implementation. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Expansion of Telemedicine Coverage in South African Remote Areas
South African remote areas face significant challenges in accessing healthcare services due to geographical isolation and limited infrastructure. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, including quantitative data analysis from health records and qualitative interviews with patients and healthcare providers to assess service uptake and quality. Telemedicine significantly improved access to specialist consultations (85% increase in remote visits) without compromising the standard of care delivery. The findings suggest that telemedicine can be an effective tool for expanding healthcare coverage in South African remote areas, although further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these results. Investment in telecommunication infrastructure and ongoing training programmes for healthcare providers should be prioritised to sustain the benefits observed. 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/
Methodological Evaluation of Urban Primary Care Networks in Rwanda Using Multilevel Regression Analysis for Clinical Outcomes Measurement
The evaluation of urban primary care networks in Rwanda aims to assess their effectiveness in delivering healthcare services. A systematic literature review was employed to analyse studies on urban primary care networks in Rwanda. Multilevel regression analysis was used to measure clinical outcomes across different levels of healthcare delivery. Findings indicate a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in patient satisfaction scores with the implementation of multilevel regression models, suggesting enhanced service quality and efficiency. The integration of multilevel regression analysis provided valuable insights into the operational effectiveness of primary care networks in Rwanda. Future studies should consider longitudinal data collection to further validate these findings and explore additional factors impacting clinical outcomes. 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 Ghana Using Bayesian Hierarchical Models for Risk Reduction Analysis
District hospitals in Ghana face significant challenges in risk reduction due to resource limitations and inadequate data systems. A systematic literature review was conducted using Bayesian hierarchical models to analyse empirical studies related to district hospitals in Ghana. The review included articles published between and . Bayesian hierarchical models demonstrated a significant direction of improvement (p < 0.05) in risk reduction strategies across various healthcare settings, with an average proportion of 78% reduction observed. The use of Bayesian hierarchical models provided robust insights into the effectiveness of district hospital systems in Ghana for reducing health risks. Policy makers should consider implementing these models to enhance resource allocation and risk management 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) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Assessment of Quasi-Experimental Designs for Evaluating Community Health Centre Systems in Tanzania,
Quasi-experimental designs are widely used in health system evaluations to assess the impact of interventions without random assignment. The review synthesizes existing studies that employed various quasi-experimental designs such as difference-in-differences (DID) and interrupted time series analysis (ITSA), focusing on their methodological strengths and weaknesses. One study used an ITS model with robust standard errors, demonstrating a 15% reduction in healthcare costs over two years. Quasi-experimental designs provide valuable insights into cost-effectiveness but require careful design to minimise bias and improve internal validity. Future research should prioritise transparent reporting of study designs and methods, along with rigorous statistical analyses. 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 Tanzania
This study aims to evaluate the operational systems of district hospitals in Tanzania, focusing on their efficiency and effectiveness. A randomized controlled trial design was employed, including baseline assessments, intervention implementation, and follow-up evaluations. Data collection involved structured questionnaires and clinical audits conducted by trained evaluators. The analysis revealed a significant improvement in patient safety protocols (95% confidence interval, CI: [0.85, 1.15]) following the introduction of risk reduction measures. The randomized field trial demonstrated that implementing structured risk reduction strategies can lead to substantial improvements in hospital operational efficiency and patient outcomes. District hospitals should prioritise regular training sessions for staff on new safety protocols and continuous monitoring of implemented practices. 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/
Community-Based Maternal Care Interventions and Birth Outcome Improvement in Urban Nigerian City Centers Over Two Years
Urban Nigerian city centers face significant maternal health challenges, particularly in terms of improved birth outcomes. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with urban Nigerian women, where participants were randomly assigned to either receive standard healthcare services or additional maternal care support provided by trained community health workers. There was an observed improvement in neonatal survival rates among the intervention group (52% reduction compared to baseline), though the exact proportion of improved outcomes varied across different indicators such as low birth weight and preterm births. The study suggests that comprehensive community-based maternal care interventions can lead to significant improvements in birth outcomes, although further research is needed to confirm these findings in diverse settings. Further studies should be conducted to validate the effectiveness of these interventions across different urban centers and socio-economic contexts. Policy makers could consider scaling up these programmes based on promising initial results. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Inter-observer Agreement in MRI Staging of Osteosarcoma
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is fundamental for the local staging of osteosarcoma, informing surgical strategy and prognosis. In resource-constrained environments, disparities in radiologist experience and imaging protocols may compromise the reliability of staging assessments, with potential consequences for patient care. This multicentre study aimed to measure the inter-observer agreement in MRI staging of osteosarcoma among radiologists at five tertiary oncology centres in Eswatini. The primary objective was to quantify concordance for key staging parameters: tumour extent, neurovascular involvement, and intra-articular extension. A comparative study was conducted. Pre-treatment MRI scans from a consecutive series of histologically confirmed osteosarcoma cases were independently reviewed by consultant musculoskeletal radiologists from each centre. Each radiologist completed a standardised proforma assessing defined staging criteria. Inter-observer agreement was analysed using Fleiss’ kappa (κ) statistics for multiple raters. Overall inter-observer agreement was moderate (κ = 0.45). Agreement was substantial for determining the presence of a soft-tissue mass (κ = 0.65) but only fair for assessing subtle neurovascular bundle involvement (κ = 0.25). Discrepancies were most pronounced in judgements of intra-articular extension and epiphyseal invasion. Considerable variability exists in MRI interpretation for osteosarcoma staging among the radiologists studied. While agreement is acceptable for overt features, critical elements for surgical planning show poor concordance. The implementation of standardised MRI reporting protocols and targeted continuing professional development in musculoskeletal oncology imaging is recommended. Further research should investigate the clinical impact of staging discordance on surgical outcomes. Osteosarcoma, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Neoplasm Staging, Observer Variation, Inter-observer Agreement, Eswatini This study provides the first multicentre data on inter-observer variability in osteosarcoma MRI staging within the region, highlighting specific areas of diagnostic inconsistency that require standardisation to improve care.
The adoption of voice-recognition dictation (VRD) systems in radiology reporting is often linked to improved operational efficiency. Existing evidence, however, comes largely from high-income settings. This study replicates such research within a Kenyan tertiary hospital to assess outcomes in a context with distinct resource and workflow considerations. This replication study aimed to evaluate operational efficiency gains from implementing a VRD system for radiology reporting at a tertiary hospital in Kenya. Its primary objective was to measure the change in report turnaround time following the system’s introduction. A retrospective, comparative analysis was performed. The median report turnaround time for a representative sample of computed tomography reports generated using the VRD system was calculated. This was compared against the median turnaround time for a similar sample produced via the previous transcriptionist-mediated method. Data on subsequent report amendments were also collected. The implementation of the VRD system was associated with a reduction in median report turnaround time. The median time decreased from approximately 72 hours under the prior system to under 24 hours post-implementation. A small proportion of dictated reports required later amendments for corrections. This replication confirms that a VRD system can significantly improve report turnaround times in a Kenyan tertiary hospital setting, aligning with findings from other contexts. The technology represents a viable tool for enhancing radiology service responsiveness. Hospitals in comparable settings should consider VRD systems to streamline reporting workflows. Investment should be accompanied by targeted radiologist training to minimise post-dictation corrections and ensure the technology’s effective integration into local practice. Voice recognition, dictation, radiology reporting, turnaround time, operational efficiency, Kenya, replication study This study provides empirical evidence from a sub-Saharan African context on the impact of VRD technology on radiology reporting efficiency, addressing a gap in the literature.
Copyright (c) 2016 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Approaches to Investigating Informal Healthcare Provision in Urban Malawi, 2016
In urban African settings, a substantial proportion of healthcare is delivered through informal channels, such as unlicensed vendors and traditional healers. Understanding these systems is crucial for public health, yet robust methodological frameworks for their investigation within the Malawian context remain underdeveloped. This methodology article details a structured approach for mapping and analysing informal healthcare provision in urban Malawi. Its primary objective is to provide a replicable strategy for identifying key actors, understanding supply chains, and documenting the types of medical products and advice circulated. The proposed methodology is a multi-stage, qualitative design. It employs purposive and snowball sampling to identify informal providers in urban markets and residential areas. Data collection combines structured observations, in-depth interviews, and informal conversations. A thematic analysis framework is used to code and analyse the data, with an emphasis on triangulation to ensure credibility. As a methodology article, this paper presents no empirical results from a specific study. Instead, it outlines the anticipated findings from applying the proposed approach. These would include a typology of informal providers and the predominant themes in their healthcare practices, such as documenting the proportion of vendors whose primary stock consists of analgesics and antibiotics. The outlined methodology provides a structured, context-sensitive approach for investigating the complex landscape of informal urban healthcare. It addresses the practical challenges of engaging with this often-hidden sector and offers a pathway to generate nuanced, actionable data. Researchers should invest significant time in community entry and building trust prior to data collection. We recommend employing local field assistants familiar with the vernacular and urban geography. Ethical protocols must be carefully considered, particularly regarding the informal status of participants. Informal healthcare, methodology, urban health, Malawi, qualitative research, medical pluralism This article contributes a practical methodological framework designed to address the specific challenges of researching informal healthcare provision in an urban Malawian setting, offering a tool for generating systematic, credible data in this under-studied domain.
A Systematic Review of Targeted Ultrasound Screening for Neonatal Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Yield of a targeted ultrasound screening program for developmental dysplasia of the hips in newborns in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in Tanzania. The objective is to clarify key debates, identify practical implications, and outline a focused agenda for scholarship and policy. A structured review of relevant literature was conducted, with thematic synthesis of key findings. The analysis indicates persistent structural constraints alongside emerging local innovations; however, evidence remains uneven across contexts and sectors. The paper argues for context‑specific approaches and stronger empirical foundations in future research. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Yield of a targeted ultrasound screening program for developmental dysplasia of the hips in newborns in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Tanzania, Africa, Medicine, systematic review This structured abstract provides a standardised summary to support rapid screening, indexing, and assessment of scholarly contribution.