Browsing by Author "Msasu, Alfred John"

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    Challenges and strategies for improving use of health information in managing district health systems and programs.
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2010) Msasu, Alfred John
    The study investigated challenges faced by the actors in the use of health information in managing district health systems and Programs in eastern Tanzania. In investigating the challenges; the knowledge on health information use, the extent and practice of using health information were assessed. Strategies and means for overcoming the identified challenges were proposed. A cross-sectional study design was adopted where 150 officials were studied. Data were collected using semi structured questionnaires, interviews, observation and review of documents. Findings revealed that the proportion of the extent of health information use was 36%; the extent, practice and frequency of health information use were improved by knowledge on health information use. Lack of knowledge on health information management, lack of a computer-based District Health Management Information System and inadequate funds for district health services and Programs were the major challenges affecting the use of health information in managing district health services and Programs. It is recommended that there should be scaling up of computer-based District Health Management Information System in all the districts in Tanzania. Furthermore mainstreaming of the Health Management Information System in different health curriculum is recommended. District health financing should base on the available health information and need, as this would improve the use of health information