Assessment of immunization data management practices in Cameroon: unveiling potential barriers to immunization data...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Informatics
• Global Health

Background:

• Paucity of timely, high-quality data hinders universal immunization coverage in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Frontline immunization staff are often overburdened with data responsibilities, impacting clinical tasks and data collection.
• This study investigates data management practices and barriers to data quality in Cameroon's immunization program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the data management practices of immunization staff in Cameroon.
• To identify potential barriers affecting immunization data quality at the facility level.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted across all 10 regions of Cameroon.
• Multi-stage sampling was used to select health districts and facilities.
• Data were collected using structured questionnaires and observation checklists from Expanded Program of Immunization (EPI) staff.

Main Results:

• Limited availability of essential data recording tools such as vaccination cards (43%) and stock cards (57%).
• Incomplete filling of core data collection tools was prevalent (37% for registers, 81% for tally sheets).
• Significant non-adherence to recommended data recording procedures and deficiencies in collecting data on vaccine administration, stock levels, storage temperatures, and wastage.

Conclusions:

• Gaps in facility-level data collection practices negatively impact Cameroon's immunization data quality.
• Urgent need for capacity building in data management for frontline staff.
• Standardizing processes and ensuring tool availability are critical for improving data quality.