Task Shifting and Task Sharing Implementation in Africa: A Scoping Review on Rationale and Scope

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Health Services Research
• Health Workforce Studies

Background:

• Task shifting and task sharing are increasingly recognized strategies in healthcare systems globally.
• Evidence mapping on the rationale and scope of these practices in Africa remains limited.
• Understanding these dynamics is crucial for optimizing healthcare delivery in resource-constrained settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review synthesizing evidence on the rationale and scope of task shifting and task sharing in Africa.
• To identify the primary drivers and the range of health services involved in these practices across the African continent.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review was performed, searching PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL databases for peer-reviewed literature.
• Sixty-one studies meeting eligibility criteria were charted to extract data on rationales and scope.
• Thematic analysis was applied to the charted data.

Main Results:

• The primary rationales identified were health worker shortages, optimal utilization of existing workforce, and expanding access to health services.
• Task shifting and sharing encompassed a wide array of health services, including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, hypertension, diabetes, mental health, eyecare, maternal and child health, sexual and reproductive health, surgical care, medicines' management, and emergency care.
• These practices were documented in 23 African countries, indicating widespread implementation.

Conclusions:

• Task shifting and task sharing are extensively implemented across diverse health service contexts in Africa.
• These strategies are vital for addressing health workforce challenges and improving access to essential healthcare services.
• The findings highlight the significant role of task shifting and sharing in strengthening African health systems.