JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Control of preventive chemotherapy-targeted neglected tropical diseases (PC-NTDs) depends on strengthened health systems. Efficient health information systems provide stimulus to reaching the sustainable development goal aimed at ending PC-NTD epidemics. However, there is a limited assessment of surveillance system functions linked to PC-NTDs and hinged on optimal performance of surveillance system attributes.

Objective:

The study aimed to assess the usefulness and performance of the system, estimate the strength, weaknesses points of the National Leishmania Control Program (NLCP).

Methods:

We followed the updated six steps of the Center for Diseases Control and Prevention guidelines (CDC) for evaluating public health surveillance systems. Data were collected using in-depth interviews with relevant stakeholders at the central level and semi-structural questionnaire format at the peripheral level. We used questions (Yes, No) to assess the usefulness, and a 5-Likert scale to measure the attributes. The final score was interpreted as poor (<60), average (60-80), and good (>80).

Results:

NLCP seemed to be useful (86%); some of its objectives were met. The system has average performance in flexibility (78%), simplicity (64%), acceptability (80%), and data quality (65%). Stability and timeliness were poor performance (33%), (8%) respectively. The overall performance of NLCP was poor (55%). Continuation of the system was the strongest point while the lack of governmental and agency funds was the weak point.

Conclusions:

The NLCP was found to be useful regarding the attributes, although simplicity, flexibility, acceptability, and data quality were average; however, stability and timeliness were poor. Governmental financial support to the program is highly recommended. In addition, creating a database for staff at the peripheral level, expanding the number of health facilities that serve as Leishmania units are prerequisites.