Enhancing contraceptive continuation outcomes among adolescent girls in Kenya using DHIS 2 Tracker Capture
Authors: Beatrice Syomiti, Charles Ngatia, Isaiah Nyabuto, Peris Waithaka
BACKGROUND: Strong data management systems are key in addressing gaps related to access and continuity of quality contraceptive/family planning service provision at both facility and community levels. Availability of real-time data enables health facility providers, ministries of health staff, and other implementing partners to make real-time decisions informed by quality program data.There exists a big gap in tracking and understanding contraceptive continuation rates among girls and other women of reproductive age. While some research studies have been conducted to track continuation outcomes, there is very scanty routine monitoring data across the health sector to help programs understand the extent to which girls continue consistent use of family planning methods while in need.
METHOD: Adolescents 360 (A360), a project implemented by Population Services International developed a continuation tracker using the Tracker Capture App and in consultation with facility-level staff. Health providers across select facilities were trained to enhance their capacity to use the App, designed to document demographic information, phone numbers, and service uptake data for girls aged 15-19. A total of 670 girls were sampled from 29 facilities and followed over 12 months, with follow-ups conducted at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months to check whether the girls were continuing with their chosen method or had discontinued. Facility health called the girls who defaulted on their visits, rescheduled appointments and checked for any side effects to provide appropriate interventions. Standard dashboards were developed at both county and national levels to track continuation outcomes.
RESULTS: After tracking the girls at the specified intervals, the continuation rates were 98% at 3 months, 95% at 6 months, 91% at 9 months, and 88% at 12 months. The use of the continuation tracker was crucial in helping the program follow up and provide the necessary support for girls to continue contraception.
PROGRAM IMPLICATIONS / LESSONS
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The availability of real-time quality data is key to increasing access to quality family services for adolescent clients. Data generated from the App was used to make targeted follow-ups, resulting in better continuation outcomes.
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Use of the tracker app and regular follow-up by health workers shows promising results in enhancing continuation outcomes.
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Harnessing the strength and opportunity that technology offers was a significant driving factor.
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Regular data reviews with government health facility providers (monthly), close follow-up, and the availability of standard dashboards were crucial for success.
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Healthcare providers used their phones to access the app, significantly reducing overall costs compared to purchasing smartphones or tablets for follow-ups.
Contact person: Beatrice Syomiti I Population Services International I Email: bsyomiti@psi.org*
