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Research Papers
Viability of Point of Care Ultrasound screening in Primary Health Care Setting: A Kenyan Experience
Amref International University piloted a sustainable business model to improve access to point-of-care obstetric ultrasound (POCUS) in primary health care settings, addressing the low uptake of ultrasound screening in developing countries. One year post-intervention, 1,250 pregnant women were screened by trained midwives at an affordable fee of USD 5 per scan. Most women (85.7%) found the service accessible and affordable, and 91% recommended scaling it up. Continuous mentorship enhanced midwives’ skills, and the model showed strong social impact and financial viability, with potential to br
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Research Papers
A cross sectional study of antimicrobial use among self-medicating covid-19 cases in Nyeri County
This study investigated self-medication with antibiotics among confirmed COVID-19 cases in Nyeri County, Kenya, during the pandemic. A phone-based survey of 280 individuals revealed that 23.4% self-medicated with antibiotics, mainly Azithromycin and Amoxycillin, often before testing and sometimes repeatedly. While only half were aware of regulations on antibiotic use, older individuals were less likely to self-medicate. Conversely, those with symptoms and awareness of COVID-19 regulations were more likely to do so. The findings highlight the need for timely public health interventions and
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Research Papers
Opportunities to Integrate Primary Health Care Digital Innovations in Maternal and Child Health Care Services in Kenya
This baseline study, conducted in three rural counties in Kenya (Kisii, Kajiado, and Migori), assessed opportunities for integrating digital innovations into Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) services within Primary Health Care (PHC) settings. Despite high skilled birth attendance, the study found discontinuity in antenatal and postnatal care, with only 46.8% of mothers attending at least one ANC visit. Barriers included limited facility access, poor staff attitudes, and cultural practices, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Over half of the women lacked knowledge on perinatal care,
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Research Papers
Six-Months Retention on Treatment and Attrition Risk Factors among People Living with HIV in Kibera Informal Settlement, Nairobi, Kenya
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the impact of non-cash incentives (like free football T-shirts or Kiondos) and psychosocial support on early retention in HIV treatment among newly diagnosed patients in Kibera, Nairobi. Conducted across three health centers, the study found no significant difference in six-month retention between the intervention group (94%) and the control group (91%) (aRR: 1.03; p = 0.24). Overall retention was high at 93%, but attrition was more likely among divorced or single individuals, those with longer travel times to clinics, lower body weight, and those
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Research Papers
Empowering Communities against Harmful Social Practices through Integrated Water Hygiene and Sanitation and Alternative Rites of Passage Model in Kajiado County, Kenya
This project in Kajiado County tested the effectiveness of an Integrated Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) and Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) Model aimed at reducing harmful practices against young girls. Unlike previous efforts that addressed WASH and SRHR separately, this integrated approach recognized that meeting urgent community needs—like access to clean water and sanitation—can create a trust-building platform for engaging communities in discussions around SRHR issues. The model showed promise in promoting positive behavior change, including reductions in fema
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Research Papers
Opportunities and Lessons Learnt from conducting Research Ethics Training to Staff at a Health Non-Governmental Organization
This paper highlights the outcomes and lessons from a 5-week research ethics training conducted for staff at a health NGO in Kenya, addressing the gap in bioethics knowledge among NGO personnel despite growing involvement in research. The training, held at Amref Kenya Country Office, used interactive and experiential learning methods such as case discussions, video clips, and presentations. Most participants were female project officers with over five years of experience. Video clips were especially effective in illustrating the real-world impact of ethical and unethical research. The s
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Research Papers
Enablers and Barriers to Chlorhexidine Use in Umbilical Cord Care: Voices of Care Givers and Healthcare Providers in Selected Counties in Kenya
This mixed-methods study explored barriers and enablers to the use of Chlorhexidine (CHX) for umbilical cord care in Kwale, Vihiga, and Machakos counties in Kenya. Among 582 surveyed caregivers, only 1.3% had used CHX, with most relying on alternatives like methylated spirits, salty water, herbal extracts, and even harmful substances like cow dung and soil. While health workers were fully aware of CHX, only 38.7% of caregivers had heard of it. Key enablers of CHX use included faster healing, ease of use, hospital infection control, and influence from decision-makers, while barriers i
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Research Papers
Policy Guidelines to Mitigate the Effects of Covid-19 Pandemic towards the Reproductive Healthcare System in Kenya
This study explored Kenya’s COVID-19 policy response and its effects on reproductive health services. It found that leadership, collaboration, and political influence were central to decision-making. The study recommends context-specific health strategies, improved emergency preparedness, and regular policy updates. It also highlights the need for deeper analysis of how health policies evolve over time. Read More >>>
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