As part of the ongoing community eye health programme (see previous posts), the DGMH community health team identified the need to assess the local population’s knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceived barriers to personal eye care and access to the healthcare services provided by the hospital. To do this, they have partnered with the Public Health Department at the nearby University of Livingstonia.
They are now gathering demographic and health-related data from a sample of the local population using questionnaires. KoBoToolbox – a free and open-source web-based app – is being used to record and crunch the data. Stored remotely, the data can be accessed and analysed online from any device.
In the picture above, DGMH clinic and community staff receive training to use the questionnaire app in the field.
Valuable information is being gathered (by workers such as the university intern, above left), already revealing local understandings and misunderstandings about eye health and sickness, as well as access to, and cost of healthcare services.
For instance, the screenshot from the app (above) shows how people have responded to a question about ” red-eye”, a common condition caused by infection or allergy.
In the results shown here (above), a significant number of people indicate that they are wary of seeking eye care services. Information such as this suggests that investment in clinical facilities – without appreciating and addressing the fears and misunderstandings that exist in a population – will not be as effective as hoped for.
The survey will be ongoing and will be able to track changes in knowledge and attitudes as the community eye health programme continues.
Note: the data shown in these graphics reflect early work in the project; much more has yet to be gathered from the catchment area.