Machakos: Strengthening the Health Information System for Evidence-Informed Decision Making

Author(s): MEASURE Evaluation PIMA

Year: 2017

Abstract:

Good-quality healthcare depends on a strong community health information system (CHIS) to measure and evaluate critical elements of care and provide accurate data for evidence-informed decision making aimed at improving services and outcomes. In 2012, MEASURE Evaluation PIMA staff began working with partners and Machakos County stakeholders to help strengthen the CHIS, through baseline assessments, capacity building, strategic mapping, action plans, and consultations. The idea was to improve data availability, quality, and use to inform decision making and improve services. These collaborations further developed the county health management team, resulting in the creation of a monitoring-and-evaluation (M&E) technical working group. This yielded training of trainers and health workers countywide, the development of the county’s first comprehensive M&E plan and county health profile, and improved civil registration of vital statistics, the HIV referral system, and child protection information management. The Mutituni Community Unit was selected as a model Center of Excellence to provide guidance and mentoring for other facilities.

This fact sheet outlines efforts to strengthen the CHIS and promote data-informed decision making in Machakos County, Kenya.