ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
This study examined the difficulties and obstacles faced by
healthcare professionals in implementing
Iraq's national plan for
hepatitis B virus (HBV) control. This
research aims to offer valuable insights into the intricacies of HBV control efforts and identify key areas for improvement.
METHODS:
In this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 10
physicians, representing diverse
medical specialties and
healthcare settings, including experts in the fields of medical
sciences.
Data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA
software, version 24 (VERBI
Software GmbH,
Berlin,
Germany) to identify recurring themes and gain insights into the challenges encountered during the implementation of the national plan.
RESULTS:
Ten
physicians participated in the study, providing insights into challenges and barriers hindering the effective implementation of
Iraq's national plan for HBV control.
Consensus among participants highlighted challenges such as
resource constraints, inadequate
infrastructure,
population ignorance, and
vaccine refusal.
Documentation challenges, including inaccuracies in
reporting HBV-associated
mortality, were also noted. Barriers to successful implementation included poor
public awareness, inadequate
education for
healthcare providers, and funding shortages. Unmet
needs highlighted the necessity for unified
protocols,
surveillance systems, and international
training programs. The improvement
strategies proposed by participants emphasized raising
awareness, supporting
primary healthcare centers, and enhancing funding allocation.
CONCLUSION:
This study underscores significant challenges in implementing
Iraq's national plan for HBV control, with barriers ranging from
resource constraints to
communication barriers.
Healthcare professionals advocate for targeted interventions, collaborative efforts, and
policy measures to
address these challenges effectively. The findings contribute to the evidence base for enhancing HBV control efforts in
Iraq and emphasize the importance of tailored approaches to
public health interventions.
