Implementation Science

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Browsing Implementation Science by Author "Chipeta, Effie"

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    Exploring facilitators and barriers to blood collection and repeat donations in high and low performing districts/programs in Malawi
    (Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2021-03-17) Chipeta, Effie
    Type of Study The Malawi Blood Transfusion Services (MBTS) was established in 2003 to provide centralized and safer blood supplies. Since its inception, the quantity of blood units collected through MBTS and hospital blood banks had increased to 87,166 units in 2017 and all districts in Malawi contributed to collection efforts. However, despite this increase, Malawi remains with a 27% deficit in required blood supplies. So far there has been limited research to understand the facilitators and barriers to blood collection and factors associated with repeat donations in Malawi. Research into understanding the facilitators and barriers to first time donation and regular donation in Malawi are critical to the design and successful retention of programs that promote life-long donation. Objectives This study seeks to examine and factors associated with blood collection and repeat donations among low and high performing districts in Malawi. Specifically, the study seeks: a) To explore the barriers and facilitators to blood donation and repeat donations among blood donors in Malawi b) To explore strategies to enhance blood collection among voluntary non remunerated blood donors in schools c) To explore strategies for building a sustainable pool of blood donors post secondary school in Malawi. Study design and data collection methods The proposed research will use a cross-sectional, qualitative, descriptive design to examine a range of factors that influence blood donation and donor retention. The study will utilise qualitative data collection methods such as in depth interviews (IDIs), focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) to collect data from donors, non-donors, community leaders, policy makers, and program staff. Data management and analysis All KIIs, FGDs, and IDIs will be audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and translated into English by trained research assistants. Recordings and anonymized transcripts will be kept in passwordsecured computers. Data will be analysed using using qualitative thematic analysis using Atlas.ti software. Ethical considerations Covid-19 preventive measures/anonymity/confidentiality/permission/information sheet and consent will be applied and followed. Possible constraints We anticipate challenges in the recruitment of school based VNRBDs. Schools have been closed and it’s still not certain when schools will reopen. This might also affect the study timelines and logistical challenges if data collection spills over to the first quarter of 2021 which in Malawi is the rainy season. In addition, due to the Covid-19 restrictions and the need to observe the precautionary measures, it may be challenging to conduct ideal group discussions as well as face to face interviews. Results Dissemination Results will be presented according to the study objectives. These will be presented in research reports that outline methods used, key findings, and recommendations. Further dissemination of results will also occur through publication(s) in peer-reviewed journal(s) as well as presentations at seminars/conferences, stakeholder meetings and websites. A report will be provided to COMREC. The implications of this study The study will provide insights on how barriers and facilitators of blood donations and retention of blood donors which will help formulate strategies to improve blood supplies in Malawi.