Factors affecting perceived utilization of routine health information among health workers in public and private health facilities in Sheema District

Abstract

Effective utilization of routine health information (RHI) is vital for improving patient care and healthcare planning. However, RHI use is low in low and middle-income countries like Uganda. This study aimed to assess perceived RHI utilization levels and determine related technical, organizational, and behavioral factors among health workers in public and private facilities in Sheema district. This cross-sectional quantitative study involved 377 health workers across 28 public, 10 private health facilities and DHT members in Sheema district. Data was collected using a structured self-administered Questionnaire. All health facilities were included in the study and participants were selected from a pool of 445 health workers enlisted from facilities and district health workers’ registers. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and logistic regression. Health workers reported high RHI utilization (81.0%) levels, with no statistically significant difference between private (82%) and public (81%) facilities (χ2=0.3461, P=0.556). They reportedly used RHI for reporting (94%), planning (90%), and day to day monitoring of health services (90%). Health Management Information System (HMIS) staff (85%), HC IIIs (96%), and the District Health Team (DHT) (98%), reported exceptionally high RHI utilization. Facility level [HC III (AOR =4.1, 95%CI: 1.51, 11.090, HC IV (AOR =9.7, 95%CI: 1.10, 85.69)], indicators visibility (AOR = 5.5, 95%CI: 1.89, 16.10), regular staff meetings (AOR = 4.0, 95%CI: 1.59, 9.87), culture for RHI (AOR = 3.6, 95%CI: 1.06, 11.88), and health workers attitude (AOR = 9.9, 95%CI: 1.09, 91.67), were significantly associated with utilization of RHI. The study revealed a commendably high level of perceived RHI utilization among health workers in Sheema district. Technical, organizational, and behavioral factors all influenced perceived RHI utilization, with health facility level (HC III & IV), performance indicator display, and culture of RHI use, regular staff meeting, and positive attitudes of health workers as key contributing factors. To improve healthcare service delivery through enhanced RHI utilization, In-charges should prioritize displaying performance indicator targets prominently, fostering a culture of RHI use, and scheduling regular staff meetings. Additionally, the district should allocate sufficient IT resources to lower-level facilities, strengthen health information infrastructure, and conduct workshops and sensitization programs for staff.