Wilfred Obwocha, George Ayo
Abstract
Utilization of health information is important in the provision of efficient and effective healthcare services. It is a major public health component in the ministry of health which informs decisions for efficient and effective healthcare. It involves generation, collection and analysis and use in identifying gaps in health systems to prompt planning for appropriate health interventions or actions to promote healthy. It is used for planning health projects and priority activities, budget allocations, research, monitoring and evaluation, education and health policy development. The objective of this study was to determine utilization of health information among healthcare workers in Gucha Sub County, Kisii County. This was an observational study which utilized descriptive cross-sectional study design using quantitative methods of data collection to assess utilization of health information among healthcare workers in Gucha Sub County, Kisii County. The study was conducted among healthcare workers offering healthcare services in the health facilities in Gucha Sub County. The sample size was determined by use of fisher’s formula. It was deployed stratified and quota sampling methods to reach the subjects of study. Interview schedules were designed with structured questions to collect the data after pretesting the tool and training research assistants on its application. Analysis was done using statistical package for social scientist (SPSS). The study found that data and information were managed by nonprofessionals due to inadequate health information specialists, consequently this compromised quality and use of information. Availability and accessibility were highly hampered due to inadequacy of training and electronic systems in use. From the study it was recommended that health workers to be trained in use of data tools and ICT system infrastructure be installed. Employing more health workers was important as well as developing health information policy to enhance the use information in Gucha Sub County.