Evaluating utilization of health information management system for HIV/AIDS monitoring in Ethiopia

Abstract

A well-performing Health Information System (HIS) provides timely, complete, accurate and easily retrievable data. It also reflects the impact of guidelines and policies on the functioning of the health system. However, HIS in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC) is highly complex and influenced by pressures from donors, politics and the administration. Hence, these countries experience persistent challenges to produce quality data from their HIS. Studies in Ethiopia indicate challenges in the data management processes, poor data quality, a low information culture, and difficulties in using HMIS data. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of the HMIS in generating quality health information for monitoring and evaluating the HIV and AIDS program in Ethiopia. The aim was to develop a framework for strengthening the information culture and the generation of reliable and accurate data to support HIV and AIDS monitoring and evaluation. The study adopted the PRISM framework to inform the research methods.