Journal
HEALTH POLICY
Volume 84, Issue 2-3, Pages 332-343Publisher
ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD
DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2007.05.011
Keywords
informal providers; BRAC; Bangladesh
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Objectives: To explore current knowledge and practice of the unqualified/semi-qualified allopathic providers in the informal sector in rural Bangladesh to develop informed and need-based intervention for them. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted in three conveniently selected sub-districts in the northern part of Bangladesh where a targeted poverty alleviation programme for the ultra poor was initiated in 2002. Semi-structured, pre-tested questionnaires were used to elicit information on socio-demographic, training and professional characteristics, and knowledge and practices on some common illnesses and conditions. Two-way and three-way cross-tabulations were done to compare and contrast the different groups, using SPSS PC+ ver. 12. Results: The different groups of providers were found to possess superficial knowledge on the conditions they commonly provide services for. Differences were noted between the unqualified and semi-qualified providers with respect to knowledge and practice on common illnesses and conditions, and especially rational use of drugs and management of pregnancy and its complications. Conclusion: Given the shortage of qualified healthcare professionals in rural Bangladesh, the importance of these informal providers should be recognized by the public sector, and their capacity developed in a planned way to improve their effectiveness and reduce irrational use of drugs. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
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