African Pharmaceutical Policy (Clinical/Public Health aspect) | 17 November 2007
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Ghana: A Randomized Field Trial on Cost-Effectiveness Assessment
K, w, e, g, y, i, r, A, g, g, r, e, y, ,, F, r, i, m, p, o, n, g, K, w, a, m, e, ,, A, n, t, w, i, Y, a, w, ,, A, m, e, y, a, w, O, s, e, i
Abstract
Public health surveillance systems are crucial for monitoring infectious diseases in Ghana, where effective control measures can prevent outbreaks and reduce morbidity. A mixed-method approach combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative interviews was employed. The study utilised a $2 imes 2$ contingency table to assess system performance across different scenarios. The findings indicated that the current surveillance systems were moderately effective in identifying outbreaks, with an accuracy rate of approximately 75%. Despite some limitations, the results suggest that improvements are necessary for enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of public health surveillance in Ghana. Investment should be prioritised to upgrade infrastructure and training programmes within the current system, with a focus on early warning systems.