Pokhara Metropolitan City is set to enhance its fight against noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) by integrating private pharmacies with public health facilities. This initiative targets the growing burden of diabetes and hypertension among the city’s low-income residents, responding to the challenges posed by rapid urbanization.
Implementing the RE-AIM Framework
The project employs the RE-AIM framework to ensure comprehensive evaluation and effective implementation. By using a sequential mixed-method design, researchers will gather quantitative data through client surveys and qualitative insights from interviews with health workers and facility staff. This dual approach aims to measure the cost-effectiveness and impact of the new system linkages over multiple stages, from baseline to post-intervention.
Engaging the Community and Health Providers
At least 20 clients from each participating pharmacy and public health facility will participate in surveys conducted at four different intervals. These surveys will track improvements in NCD screening, management, and referrals. Additionally, lifestyle adherence and referral compliance will be monitored to assess long-term sustainability. Thematic analysis of interview data will identify key barriers and facilitators to the program’s success.
- Effective collaboration between private and public sectors can enhance NCD management.
- Continuous monitoring is crucial for assessing the program’s impact.
- Community adherence to lifestyle changes remains a significant challenge.
Integrating pharmacies into the public health system could significantly improve access to quality care for diabetes and hypertension patients in urban Nepal. By leveraging the widespread presence of pharmacies, the initiative promises to bridge gaps in primary care services, particularly for economically disadvantaged populations.
This approach offers a scalable model for other low- and middle-income countries experiencing similar urban health challenges. The study’s findings will provide valuable insights for policymakers and health practitioners aiming to optimize NCD prevention and management through public-private partnerships.
Empowering pharmacies as key players in the healthcare ecosystem not only alleviates the strain on primary care facilities but also ensures that vulnerable populations receive the necessary support to manage chronic conditions effectively. The success of this initiative could pave the way for broader health system strengthening efforts in rapidly urbanizing regions.
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