HYBRID EVENT: You can participate in person at Baltimore, Maryland, USA or Virtually from your home or work.
Asmamaw Bihonegn, Speaker at Vaccines Conferences
Bahir Dar City Administrative Health Department, Ethiopia
Title : Comprehensive analysis of immunization program efficacy in Bahir Dar City: A six-month retrospective study

Abstract:

This presentation elucidates the findings of a rigorous six-month evaluation of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) conducted by the Health Department of Bahir Dar City. Utilizing a robust dataset extracted from the District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2), this analysis provides a granular look at immunization coverage trends, encompassing critical vaccines such as Penta1, Penta3, MCV1, and MCV2. The report meticulously assesses vaccine coverage rates, the productivity of health facilities (HFs), and delineates the immunization coverage disparities across various facility levels.

Key performance indicators reveal significant challenges including the rotation of trained staff, recurrent vaccine stock shortages, notably of Rota and OPV antigens, and high dropout rates that collectively impede the efficacy of the immunization programs. Moreover, persistent issues in data quality and the operational hurdles posed by infrastructural limitations are highlighted. The presentation will propose a series of methodologically sound recommendations aimed at enhancing the integrity of immunization data and optimizing the distribution and utilization of vaccine resources.

Audience Take Away:

? A deep understanding of the dynamics and operational challenges of running immunization programs in an urban Ethiopian context.
? Insight into methodological approaches for analyzing health data to assess program performance comprehensively.
? Strategies to mitigate common logistical and administrative challenges in vaccine program implementation. Professional Relevance:
? The findings furnish pivotal insights that can aid public health professionals in enhancing vaccine distribution strategies and immunization program efficiency.
? The detailed analysis serves as a blueprint for similar urban settings grappling with public health management challenges, particularly in low-resource environments.

Academic Contributions:

? The study offers a rich dataset for academic exploration, suitable for incorporation into public health curriculum and further scholarly research.
? It provides a critical examination of field-specific challenges that could inform future research directions and policy formulations. Design and Innovation:
? By addressing data integrity and staff training issues, the presentation introduces innovative solutions for improving the design and administration of immunization programs.
? It outlines data-driven strategies that can be employed to refine program monitoring and evaluation frameworks, thereby enhancing overall program efficacy.

Biography:

I was born and raised in Northern Ethiopia. I graduated from Bahir Dar University of Ethiopia in Bachelor of Nursing in 2008 with honors. Since then I had been working as a leader in deferent public health and health administration positions in Amhara region until I left to attend my masters degree in Advanced nursing  practice and medical technology in 2023. As such, I have developed high level nursing skills and health sector leadership skills as part of my past achievements. The following is my work experiences: 

  1. Master’s degree student in Advanced Nursing Practice and Medical technology at Central South University of China in Changsha City, Hunan Province since Sept, 2023
  2. Worked as Head of Bahir Dar City Zonal Health Department, Amhara Region, Ethiopia from Jan 2019 until Sept, 2023
  3. Head of District health office, Amhara Region, Ethiopia from Jan 2011 – Dec, 2018
  4. Head of Health Center in Amhara Region Ethiopia from 2008 – 2010

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