Improvement studies for equitable and evidence-based innovation: an overview of the ‘IM-SEEN’ model
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Published:2023-06-17
Issue:1
Volume:22
Page:
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ISSN:1475-9276
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Container-title:International Journal for Equity in Health
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language:en
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Short-container-title:Int J Equity Health
Author:
Allen Luke N.,Nkomazana Oathokwa,Mishra Sailesh Kumar,Gichangi Michael,Macleod David,Ramke Jacqueline,Bolster Nigel,Marques Ana Patricia,Rono Hilary,Burton Matthew,Kim Min,Ratshaa Bakgaki,Karanja Sarah,Ho-Foster Ari,Bastawrous Andrew
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Health inequalities are ubiquitous, and as countries seek to expand service coverage, they are at risk of exacerbating existing inequalities unless they adopt equity-focused approaches to service delivery.
Main text
Our team has developed an equity-focused continuous improvement model that reconciles prioritisation of disadvantaged groups with the expansion of service coverage. Our new approach is based on the foundations of routinely collecting sociodemographic data; identifying left-behind groups; engaging with these service users to elicit barriers and potential solutions; and then rigorously testing these solutions with pragmatic, embedded trials. This paper presents the rationale for the model, a holistic overview of how the different elements fit together, and potential applications. Future work will present findings as the model is operationalised in eye-health programmes in Botswana, India, Kenya, and Nepal.
Conclusion
There is a real paucity of approaches for operationalising equity. By bringing a series of steps together that force programme managers to focus on groups that are being left behind, we present a model that can be used in any service delivery setting to build equity into routine practice.
Funder
Wellcome Trust and NIHR
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health,Health Policy
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