An evaluation of a microcomputer information system for leprosy control two years post-implementation

As part of a national programme to improve the management of health services in Papua New Guinea, a microcomputerized information system was designed and implemented in seven provinces. Four other provinces later adopted this system. One component of this information system was a program to assist disease control officers to monitor the treatment received by leprosy and tuberculosis patients. In contrast to other components of the information system, the leprosy and TB computer program was not maintained nor used after two years. This article describes the computer program developed and discusses possible reasons for its nonuse.