Stakeholders’ Perceptions, Expectations, and Proposed Improvements for Noncommunicable Disease Surveillance and Response in the Butembo Branch of the North Kivu Provincial Health Division, Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Qualitative Study
Abstract:
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) remain insufficiently integrated into surveillance and response functions in the areas covered by the Butembo provincial health division branch, North Kivu, RDC. This study aimed to explore stakeholders' perceptions, expectations, and suggestions for improvement. A descriptive qualitative study with an exploratory focus was conducted among 25 stakeholders selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews and subjected to manual inductive and deductive thematic analysis. Participants’ accounts converged on recognizing the growing burden of NCDs while lamenting the limited consideration given to these diseases in health priorities. Surveillance was limited to the reporting of incomplete indicators that were rarely used locally. According to participants, out-of-pocket payments, poverty, insecurity, supply shortages, limited diagnostic capabilities, and inadequate longitudinal patient follow-up undermined clinical response. The lack of referral pathways, dedicated resources, supervision, and structured community involvement exacerbated these difficulties. Participants recommended increased commitment from the health system toward NCDs, a more inclusive information system, and the effective integration of referral, longitudinal follow-up, and community participation into primary health care.References:
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