East Africa Cross-Border Integrated Health Report

Author(s): MEASURE Evaluation

Year: 2017

Abstract:

This report presents the results of a cross-sectional study describing the health status and behaviors of mobile and vulnerable populations living in or traveling through 12 cross-border sites in the East African countries of Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. Findings will be used to better focus interventions to increase survival, improve quality of life, and reduce HIV transmission at cross-border sites.

The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative research techniques. Health and service delivery outcomes were measured at 12 cross-border sites through two data collection components: the Priorities for Local AIDS Control Efforts (PLACE) method and a health facility survey consisting of a quantitative survey focused on services provided, a qualitative interview exploring experiences of healthcare workers based at facilities located in cross-border sites, and abstraction of clinical data to measure specific health indicators. Through qualitative interviews, the study team constructed a cohort of people first enrolled in HIV care and treatment at cross-border sites and interviewed a larger group of participants sampled from public places about their health behaviors and access to health services. 

This study resulted in 12 key findings or recommendations concerning cross-border sites in East Africa, including lessons for future studies.