Access and utilization of health information for disease management among mothers of children under five: a case study of Kawaala Health Centre IV, Kampala, Uganda

Abstract

Access to and effective utilization of child health information are critical for the prevention and management of common childhood illnesses among children under five years. However, many mothers continue to face challenges in accessing, understanding, and applying this information appropriately. The purpose of this study was to examine access to and utilization of child health information for disease management among mothers of children under five attending Kawaala Health Centre IV in Kampala, Uganda. The aim of the study was to investigate how mothers of under-five children access and utilize child health information in order to recommend strategic interventions that enhance its provision, accessibility, and effective use. Specifically, the study sought to: (i) examine the sources through which mothers access child health information; (ii) assess how mothers utilize child health information in managing common childhood diseases; (iii) examine the role of health workers and health education programs in disseminating child health information; (iv) identify challenges affecting access to and utilization of child health information; and (v) propose strategies for improving access and utilization of child health information for disease management. A descriptive case study design was adopted, and data were collected from mothers of under-five children, health workers, and community health actors using interviews, focus group discussions, and document reviews. The findings revealed that mothers accessed child health information through multiple sources, including health workers, health education sessions, Village Health Teams (VHTs), printed materials, peer mothers, family members, local leaders, and digital platforms such as radio, television, WhatsApp, and SMS reminders. Utilization of this information contributed to improved child nutrition and growth monitoring, increased immunization uptake, enhanced hygiene and sanitation practices, home-based care, first aid, and overall child development. Despite these positive outcomes, the study identified several barriers to effective access and utilization of child health information, including long distances to health facilities, low literacy and health literacy levels, socio-cultural beliefs and practices, economic constraints, weak community engagement, and inadequate communication. Health workers and structured health education programs were found to play a central role in information dissemination through interpersonal communication, participatory education, capacity building, and follow-up support. The study recommends expanding VHT coverage, strengthening continuous training for health workers and VHTs, increasing the use of mass media and digital platforms, establishing community-based child health information centers, empowering mothers and communities, and strengthening home-based care interventions. Overall, the study concludes that improving child health outcomes requires a multifaceted, community-centered approach that enhances information access, promotes effective utilization, and empowers caregivers to make informed health decisions for their children.