Factors affecting patients' referral to Machinga District hospital from Chikweo, Namanja and Ntaja Health centres
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Date
2010-11-11
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Kamuzu University of Health Sciences
Abstract
Patient referral from health centers is a very crucial intervention that helps to determine the organization of the health care delivery system. This qualitative study was conducted to assess factors affecting patients' referral to Machinga District Hospital from Chikweo, Namanja and Ntaja Health Centers. This was based on realization that statistics in the district is indicating high morbidity and mortality rate as compared to the whole nation. A convenient sample of ten respondents which included; a District Health Management Team member, clinicians and nurses was used. In-depth interviews with a question guide and a tape recorder were used to collect data. In order to ensure reliability of the data collection instruments, a pilot study was done at Lilongwe DHO and Lumbadzi Health Centre on three respondents. Issues such as determination of the existing referral system, knowledge of personnel on the importance of referral and factors affecting the referral system were explored. Data was analyzed manually using Grounded Theory and transcription of data from the tape recorder. Findings revealed that factors such as adequate psychosocial support, emergency care given to patients whilst awaiting referral transport, responsibility exercised by health workers, patient and guardians' positive attitude towards referral and effective radio communication enhance the referral system. Lack of proper referral policies and guidelines, shortage of human and material resource, lack of holistic care to patients indicate a gap which needs to be filled in order to improve the referral system. The study results also elicited implications of the study to the nursing discipline and highlighted areas for further study.