A rapid assessment of utilization, effectiveness a added value of the knowledge centres at Bishoftu and Durame hospitals in Ethiopia
Global Health Workforce Alliance, case study
This paper explores the benefits and experiences gained since the introduction of the knowledge centres established in 2010 at Bishoftu and Durame hospitals in Ethiopia. The KCs are meant to “contribute to the retention of an effective, responsive and equitably distributed health workforce” by improving access to up to date information for public health and clinical practice in hospitals of remote areas.
A case study of the two sites was performed using a mix of rapid assessment techniques which include in-depth interview, record review, observation and mini-survey among users.
Some of the key findings include:
- More than a quarter of the users interviewed visit the KC at least once per day while another 41.0% visit the center three or more times per week.
- The presence of the KCs in the hospitals has improved access to up to date information, through different literatures and reference materials, by the health professionals.
- All participants of the assessment claimed that the practice, motivation and satisfaction of the health workers in the hospital have improved since the establishment of the KCs. It was also found that the KCs have contributed in improving the ability of the hospitals to retain health workforce.