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Improving national data collection systems from voluntary counselling and testing centres in Kenya
Kennedy N Otwombe1, John Wanyungu, Kilonzo Nduku
1School of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. kotwombe@stats.wits.ac.za
Bulletin of the World Health Organization
|June 5, 2007
Summary
Improving voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) data flow in Kenya requires addressing barriers to data collection. Enhancing data management through training and relevant tools is crucial for accurate VCT statistics.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Information Systems
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) data in Kenya faces significant challenges, impacting national health planning.
- Insufficient VCT statistics hinder effective program management and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify barriers affecting data flow within VCT sites in Kenya.
- To inform strategies for improving VCT data quality and reporting.
Main Methods:
- A record-based survey was conducted across 332 registered VCT sites in Kenya.
- On-site records were compared with national office data to assess discrepancies.
- Data collection occurred between September 5 and October 15, 2004.
Main Results:
- Implementation of a uniform data collection tool for all districts.
- Strengthening of feedback mechanisms to monitor reporting status.
- Increased support for the data component within national VCT quality assurance.
Conclusions:
- Regular field visits for on-the-job training in data management are vital.
- Addressing data quality issues and perceived relevance enhances reporting timeliness and completeness.
- Empowering site-level personnel is key to improving VCT data quality.
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