Application of mobile technology for improving expanded program on immunization among highland minority and stateless populations in northern Thailand border.
Author:
Kaewkungwal- Jaranit; Apidechkul- Tawatchai; Jandee- Kasemsak; Khamsiriwatchara- Amnat; Lawpoolsri- Saranath; Sawang- Surasak; Sangvichean- Aumnuyphan; Wansatid- Peerawat & Krongrungroj- Sarinya
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Tags:
App
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Health promotion
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ICT
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Immunization information systems
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Studies of undervaccinated children of minority/stateless populations have highlighted significant barriers at individual- community- and state levels. These include geography-related difficulties- poverty- and social norms/beliefs. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess project outcomes regarding immunization coverage- as well as maternal attitudes and practices toward immunization. METHODS: The StatelessVac" project was conducted in Thailand-Myanmar-Laos border areas using cell phone-based mechanisms to increase immunization coverage by incorporating phone-to-phone information sharing for both identification and prevention. With limitation of the study among vulnerable populations in low-resource settings the pre/post assessments without comparison group were conducted. Immunization coverage was collected from routine monthly reports while behavior-change outcomes were from repeat surveys. RESULTS: This study revealed potential benefits of the initiative for case identification/ immunization coverage showed an improved trend. Prevention strategies were successfully integrated into the routine health care workflows of immunization activities at point-of-care. A behavior-change-communication package contributes significantly in raising both concern and awareness in relation to child care. CONCLUSIONS: The mobile technology has proven to be an effective mechanism in improving a children's immunization program among these hard-to-reach populations. Part of the intervention has now been revised for use at health centers across the country."
About
Country | Not Specified |
Link | http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=4319147&tool=pmcentrez&rendertype=abstract |
Journal | JMIR mHealth and uHealth |
Volume | 3 |
Year | 2015 |
Added by | TechNet Admin |
Added on | 2 July 2015 04:58:10 |
Hits: | 776 |
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