An Assessment of the Generation and Utilization of HMIS Data for Decision-Making At the Local Government Area and State Ministry of Health In Rivers State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Health Management Information System is a database system and incorporates all data needed by policy makers, donor agencies, non-governmental organizations, clinicians and health service users to improve and protect the health of the population. This study was used to assess the generation and utilization of Health Management Information System Data for decision- making at the Local Government Area and State Ministry of Health in Rivers.

Methods

The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study with both qualitative and quantitative components. Data was collected through the use of questionnaires, in-depth interviews and review of relevant documents. The study was conducted in all government- owned primary health care facilities in Port Harcourt Local Government Area (LGA) and the Health Management Information Systems Unit ( HMIS) of the Directorate of Planning, Research and Statistics of the Rivers State Ministry of Health. The respondents were the staff of the primary health care facilities, local government area monitoring and evaluation/HMIS department and State Ministry of Health HMIS department.

Results

The study showed that the HMIS minimum package items were grossly inadequate at the LGA level. That HMIS data were returned on a quarterly basis to the LGA while the LGA submitted its own data on a monthly basis to the State Ministry of Health. Several constraints / challenges to the operation of the HMIS in the State were identified which include inadequate funds (76%), ignorance about HMIS (61%), poorly motivated staff (58%), lack of strong political will (33%).

Conclusion and Recommendations

The National Health Management Information System is in operation at the LGA and state levels but faces a lot of challenges especially at the LGA level. It is the recommendation that greater advocacy be instituted in order to address issues of inadequate funds, staff shortages, human capacity development and lack of working materials.