Do Healthcare Professional View Integrated Management of Childhood Illness Effective? Findings from in-Depth Interviews and Focus Group Discussion in Oman

Abstract

: This study highlights the findings of a recent research effort where in-depth interviews and focus group discussion were employed to examine views of healthcare professionals on the likely impact of Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) on healthcare leadership in Blinded region, Oman. In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) were chosen as appropriate methodologies to collect and analyze data. These methods suited the aim of the study and 12 (n = 12) healthcare professionals (8 male and 4 female) were recruited, having more than 10 years of experience in integrated management of childhood illness. In accord with the best practice of qualitative research methodology, a specific question was developed to initiate discussion and gather participant’s knowledge and perceptions. The focal question was whether IMCI strategy could have a positive impact on healthcare leadership. The study was carried out at Blinded Hospital, Sultanate of Oman in April, 2017. All participants approved of IMCI strategy and believed that there is a positive correlation between the strategy and improved child healthcare. In addition, all participants shared positive views on the impact of IMCI on leadership in the healthcare sector. Participants of the study strongly believed that IMCI strategy has: lead to enhanced strategic leadership and management at a macro level; improved Knowledge, Attitudes and Skills (KAS) of Primary Healthcare (PHC) workers, resulted in better prescription practices, prioritized the needs of Primary Healthcare (PHC) units, improved clinical practices and reduced unnecessary referrals.