Identifying Expert Opinions on the Challenges and Barriers Faced in Implementing Iraq's National Plan for Controlling Hepatitis B.

BACKGROUND

This study examined the difficulties and obstacles faced by healthcare professionals in implementing Iraq's national plan for hepatitis B virus (HBV) control. This research aims to offer valuable insights into the intricacies of HBV control efforts and identify key areas for improvement.

METHODS

In this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 10 physicians, representing diverse medical specialties and healthcare settings, including experts in the fields of medical sciences. Data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA software, version 24 (VERBI Software GmbH, Berlin, Germany) to identify recurring themes and gain insights into the challenges encountered during the implementation of the national plan.

RESULTS

Ten physicians participated in the study, providing insights into challenges and barriers hindering the effective implementation of Iraq's national plan for HBV control. Consensus among participants highlighted challenges such as resource constraints, inadequate infrastructure, population ignorance, and vaccine refusal. Documentation challenges, including inaccuracies in reporting HBV-associated mortality, were also noted. Barriers to successful implementation included poor public awareness, inadequate education for healthcare providers, and funding shortages. Unmet needs highlighted the necessity for unified protocols, surveillance systems, and international training programs. The improvement strategies proposed by participants emphasized raising awareness, supporting primary healthcare centers, and enhancing funding allocation.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores significant challenges in implementing Iraq's national plan for HBV control, with barriers ranging from resource constraints to communication barriers. Healthcare professionals advocate for targeted interventions, collaborative efforts, and policy measures to address these challenges effectively. The findings contribute to the evidence base for enhancing HBV control efforts in Iraq and emphasize the importance of tailored approaches to public health interventions.

Informations de copyright

Copyright © 2024, Jalal et al.

Déclaration de conflit d'intérêts

Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Postgraduate Education Council of the Faculty of Public Health and Safety (PHS) at Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (SBMU) issued approval (IR.SBMU.PHNS.REC.1404.044). We have obtained approvals from the relevant institutions, as described earlier, to collect data that had been previously collected. Our evaluation focused on the program's process, without involving any application (not applicable) to humans or human tissues. Additionally, a formal letter of approval has been obtained from the Research Committee at the National Center for Training and Human Development, Iraq Ministry of Health (MOH) with the approval ID: IRAQ.MOH.FORM NUMBER 04/2012. DECISION NUMBER:24. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.