Determinants of physicians’ intention to collect data exhaustively in registries: an exploratory study in Bamako’s community health centres
Abstract
Background: The incomplete collection of health data
is a prevalent problem in healthcare systems around the
world, especially in developing countries. Missing data
hinders progress in population health and perpetuates
inefficiencies in healthcare systems.
Objective: This study aims to identify the factors that predict the intention of physicians practicing in community health centres of Bamako, Mali, to collect data exhaustively in medical registries.
Design: A cross sectional study
Method: In January and February 2011, we conducted a study with a random sample of thirty two physicians practicing in community health centres of Bamako, using a questionnaire. Data was analyzed by using descriptive statistics, correlations and linear regression.
Main outcomes measures: Trained investigators administered a questionnaire measuring physicians’ sociodemographic and professional characteristics as well as constructs from the Theory of Planned Behaviour.
Results: Our results showed that physicians’ intention to collect data exhaustively is influenced by subjective norms and by the physician’s number of years in practice.
Conclusions: the results of this study could be used as a guide for health workers and decision makers to improve the quality of health information collected in community health centers.
Keywords: Physicians’ intention, exhaustive data collection, Bamako, Community Health Centre, Missing data
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