Pediatric Health Outcome Evaluation in Low-and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review of NGO Practice

Abstract

Objective. The purpose of this study was to explore the research on the delivery and evaluation of pediatric health services by non-governmental organizations in low-and middle-income countries to better understand how they contribute to positive and sustainable health outcomes. Methods. A scoping review was completed using a 2-step study selection procedure. Results. Of the 5742 studies, 17 met criteria, including quantitative and mixed method designs, representing 10 different non-governmental organizations with programs in 33 low-and middle-income countries. Health outcomes were reported 89 times across the studies. A total of 56 different outcomes were identified in total, of which 24 were positive, 27 were negative, and 5 were unchanged. Conclusions. Widespread variation between non-governmental organizations exist, however, comprehensive pediatric health outcome evaluation is growing. Further emphasis should be given to adolescent specific research and robust measurement of quality of life.

Developing an Assessment Tool for Post-Surgical Paediatric Rehabilitative Care in Tanzania: an Interprofessional Approach

“…Over 5 billion people lack access to necessary surgical intervention (Butler et al, 2017), and the majority of these individuals reside in regions of the world with small clinician to population ratios and under-resourced healthcare facilities (Philipo, Nagraj, Bokhary and Lakhoo, 2020). As a result, health inequities are present, as both socioeconomic status and public health infrastructure hinder access to adequate care, especially for those in remote areas (Taylor, Forgeron, Vandyk, Finley and Lightfoot, 2021). There are large numbers of children with surgically treatable disabilities, who go untreated each year (Butler et al, 2017;Hendriks et al, 2019).…”

“…In addition to training a larger clinical workforce, some Tanzanian hospitals and universities have formed international partnerships with universities and medical entities to reduce the burden of surgical need (Philipo et al, 2020). Additionally, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) fill gaps in paediatric surgical care and rehabilitation (Taylor et al, 2021). Faith-based missions, shortterm surgical trips, academic partnerships, and teaching workshops have also played roles in addressing the paediatric surgical gaps in Tanzania (Butler et al, 2017;Hendriks et al, 2019).…”