A framework for timely reporting of health management information system data at public health facilities in Kampala District, Uganda

Abstract

Sound and timely reliable health information from national Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) is critical in strengthening healthcare systems. Such data are vital for evidence-based policy formulation, monitoring and evaluations of health interventions/programs and resource allocations towards improved healthcare. Despite the central role of HMIS data towards improving national healthcare service delivery in many developing countries like Uganda, there is lack of timely reliable data. This is mainly due to knowledge limitations, manual data management practices, inadequate IT infrastructure, poor internet connectivity, lack of feedback and fragmented health information systems among others. This research therefore investigated the underlying causes of untimely reporting with the aim of designing a framework for timely reporting of HMIS data at public health facilities in Kampala district (FTRHMISD). The study adopted design science methodology combining both the qualitative and quantitative approaches. Questionnaires and interviews were used to collect primary data among healthcare workforce directly involved in HMIS reporting at 7 KCCA HCIIIs, Mulago hospital and MoH, which was analysed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The findings revealed the issues that impeded timely reporting of HMIS data. The FTRHMISD was designed by adopting design decisions from primary data to extend the quadrant of “Timely Data Collection and Reporting” in Muhindo et al. (2016)’s framework. The FTRHMISD validation revealed that the framework was useful and applicable as the major challenges hindering timely reporting of HMIS data at public health facilities were addressed. The study recommends further studies focused on interoperability of DHIS2 with the different existing HISs and automation of HMIS data management processes.