Performance of Maternal and Child Health Data in Routine Health Information System Among Healthcare Facilities in Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana

Abstract

This study assessed the performance of Routine Health Information System (RHIS) as well as identified the technical, organisational, and behavioural factors affecting maternal and child health (MCH) data quality (DQ) and information use (IU) in the Cape Coast Metropolis (CCM). Descriptive quantitative cross-sectional case study design was used. The survey involved thirteen purposively sample healthcare facilities (HCFs), and 278 healthcare professionals (HCPs). Eight MCH indicators were assessed for data accuracy, completeness, timeliness, and consistency. Data was collected using two pre existing instruments. Pearson correlation coefficient, percentages, and verification factors (VFs) were estimated. The VFs for data accuracy between registers and forms, registers and District Health Information System (DHIS2) database, and forms and DHIS2 were, 102.1%, 102.4%, and 100.1% respectively. Data were 95.4% complete in DHIS2, 87.2% submitted on time, and 93% consistent over time. RHIS processes were 63.7% functional, and 27.9% of the management functions were met. Indices measuring technical and behavioural factors were weak. Self-efficacy was moderately positively associated with: perceived promotion of culture of information (COI), ( ) ; activities for COI, ( ) ; and supportive management, ( ) . The level of MCH DQ were within the threshold recommended by WHO, but the level of IU was weak. MCH processes, and organisational factors fared averagely. Managers of HCFs should strengthen MCH performance by building the capacities of HCPs involved in MCH activities.