Establishing Relations: Health Workers Views on Integration of Mobile Phones during Follow-Up

Kenya like other developing countries faces constraints in health system performance and access to services in hard-to-reach areas. The effectiveness of the use of mobile phones in iCCM (integrated Community Case Management) within specific cultural settings are yet to be established through the views of CHVs (Community Health Volunteers) and other stakeholders. This study aimed to examine the views of health workers in the integration of mobile phones within iCCM. The study design was ethnographic. The study population consisted of 25 CHVs trained and supervised in iCCM and having access to mobile phones, 4 KIIs with Nyaguda dispensary incharge, CHEW Nyaguda sub-location, a clinical officer and matron in-charge of MCH at Bondo sub-County hospital, 4 FGDs with the caregivers, community health workers, CHEWs within the intervention sites of iCCM and Bondo sub-county health management team. Data collection methods included; in-depth interviews, KIIs, FGDs, and direct observation. Data was analyzed through content analysis through the examination of the themes that emerged to explain specific objective of the study. Ethical standards were followed by obtaining informed consent and respecting confidentiality. It is hoped that the findings of this study will contribute to strengthening the existing initiatives and practices in integrating mhealth in the Kenyan healthcare system and contribute to improving health policy.