Strengthening nutrition routine data using institutionalized health management information systems for decision-making: analysis of best practices and lessons learned from implementation in Burkina Faso.

Abstract

Abstract Strengthening nutrition routine information system is critical to support nutrition programs with relevant data to inform decision-making. This study analyzed the practices and lessons learned from the implementation in Burkina Faso in strengthening nutrition routine data using institutionalized health management information systems for decision making. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in Burkina Faso in two key stages: i)a baseline exploratory study conducted in 2018 through a multisectoral mapping of information systems using the review of the nutrition data available, individual interviews with 33 program and sector statistics specialists; and a national triangulation workshop with 42 participants from the data and program managers and partners in nutrition and made it possible to prioritize a reduced list of new key nutrition indicators to be tested in a small-scale phase. ii) a study in 2022 on the capitalization of best practices after 3 years of implementation through documentary review, semi-structured individual interviews with 64 key implementing informants spread over 3 health districts, 2 regional hospital centers and 2 health regions, and a national triangulation workshop with 40 implementing actors, including 20 from the central level, 15 from the decentralized level, and 5 partners. Results: The results of the study show, among other findings, the best practices and progress identified below: i) the integration of new routine data elements and nutrition indicators into District Health Information Software (DHIS2), which filled the data gap for adequate monitoring of the nutrition program; ii) the design and use of the nutrition indicator dashboard; iii) data validation and performance review sessions which have improved the quality and use of routine data in decision-making ; and iv) decentralization of the entry of monthly activity reports of health facilities. Lessons learned included: i) conducting a small-scale phase to test the indicators is an important step to take before national scale-up of the indicators; ii) a participatory approach involving all actors at different levels is important; iii) advocacy is important to integrate prevention indicators into health facilities in a more curative-oriented health system; iv) the decentralized entry of data is a best practice that improves data quality in terms of timeliness, completeness, and internal consistency. Conclusion: Beyond the inclusion of indicators, special emphasis should be placed on working on data quality. Future experiences in refining routine data related to sensitive nutrition interventions in the non-health sectors are key next steps that would further contribute to strengthening the national nutrition information system.