Assessment of nutrition health information systems and quality reporting in rural Agago District health facilities

Abstract

Health centres have faced challenges in timely inputting nutrition data into the Nutrition Health Information System, resulting in inconsistent and poor-quality reports. These inconsistencies lead to incomplete and inaccurate data, hindering effective decision-making and information sharing at the district level and among partners. This thesis examined the availability of nutrition indicators, the presence of nutrition information, and factors influencing the quality of nutrition indicator reports by health workers in government rural health facilities in Agago district.A cross-sectional survey using purposive sampling was conducted, employing descriptive data and inferential analysis via SPSS. Chi-square tests revealed a significant relationship between respondents' professions and their knowledge of nutrition indicators, with a Pearson Chi-Square value of 37.056 and a p-value of 0.001. The Phi coefficient of .653 and Cramer's V of .461 indicated a moderate to strong association. Similarly, there was a significant association between the respondents' profession and their use of platforms for learning and sharing nutrition information. Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) was the most frequently cited indicator (41.2%), followed by Weight-for-Age (WFA) at 18%, Height-for-Age (HFA), and Weight-for-Height (WFH) at 12% each. Nutrition services in rural government facilities were found to be inadequate, with only 18.7% offering dietary counselling and meal planning, and 40.7% providing nutritional education and screening for malnourished individuals. Training gaps were evident, especially among nurses and midwives.The District Health Management Meetings were the most utilised platform for learning and sharing nutrition information (61.5%), while access to national information sources like MIYCAN was reported by 83.5% of respondents. However, the use of the District Health Information System two (DHIS2) website was minimal (3.1%). Access to annual reports on nutrition budget expenditure and service delivery effectiveness was low (6.3%), while monthly reports on malnutrition prevalence rates were more accessible (64.8%). Most facilities relied on paper-based methods for recording nutrition data (61.8%), with electronic systems like smartphones and tablets being scarce (1.8%). In conclusion, while most healthcare professionals are somewhat aware of nutrition indicators, significant knowledge gaps remain. The study highlighted the need for targeted training, improved communication, and enhanced data management tools to improve the quality of nutrition reporting in Agago district. Overall, the findings underscore the progress made and the challenges that persist in nutrition indicator reporting, suggesting key areas for improvement in training and resources.