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Operational research within the national tuberculosis control programme in Benin
Serge Ade1,2,3, Dissou Affolabi4, Mênonli Adjobimey4
1Faculté de Médecine, Université de Parakou, Parakou, Benin. adeserg@yahoo.fr.
BMC Research Notes
|December 1, 2017
Summary
Placing operational research (OR) fellows in disease control programs in low-income countries facilitates research implementation. This leads to improved public health policies and practices, as seen in Benin's National TB Programme.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Policy
- Operational Research
Background:
- Disease control programs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) often face challenges in implementing operational research (OR).
- The integration of OR fellows into national programs is a strategy to bridge this gap.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate if placing OR fellows in disease control programs in LMICs enhances OR implementation.
- To determine if this placement leads to improvements in health policy and practice.
Main Methods:
- A case study approach was used, focusing on the placement of an OR fellow within the National TB Programme in Benin.
- Data were collected on OR projects implemented and their impact on program activities and reporting.
Main Results:
- Eight OR projects were implemented between 2012 and 2015.
- Three projects directly influenced program practices, and five provided novel data not captured in routine reports.
- Specific projects on childhood TB burden and treatment outcomes, and patient tracing, demonstrated tangible benefits.
Conclusions:
- The placement of OR fellows is a valuable strategy for strengthening operational research within national disease control programs.
- OR fellows can significantly contribute to evidence-based policy and practice improvements in LMICs.