Looking at maternal health of Asháninka communities from the conceptual framework of the accessibility of care.

BACKGROUND: Peru is one of the 20 countries that has significantly reduced maternal mortality before the pandemic due to implementing policies to strengthen maternal health care, mainly in rural areas with greater poverty. However, the implementation of these policies has been different across the territory; such is the case of the indigenous communities of the Peruvian Amazon that are characterized by the inaccessibility of their territory and continue to face severe problems in accessing maternity care in health services. OBJECTIVE: Analyze the main dimensions of accessibility for maternal care in public health services for women of the Asháninka community of Peru between 2016 and 2018. METHODS: Qualitative research was carried out in the Asháninka community of the Tambo River. Key informants involved in maternal health care were selected, and 60 in-depth interviews were conducted that explored geographical, financial, cultural, and organizational accessibility. The interviews were recorded and transcribed into a word processor; then, a content analysis was performed to classify the texts according to the dimensions of specified accessibility. RESULTS: Geographical accessibility: health units in the territory do not have the resolution capacity to attend maternal health problems. Financial accessibility: the programs implemented by the government have not been able to finance the indirect costs of care, such as transportation, which has high costs that a family cannot afford, given their subsistence economy. Cultural: there are efforts for cultural adaptation of maternal care, but its implementation needs to be improved, and the community cannot recognize it due to the lack of continuity of the model and the high personnel turnover. Organizational: health units are characterized by insufficient human resources, supplies, and medicines that fail to offer continuous and quality care. CONCLUSIONS: The poor geographical, financial, cultural, and organizational accessibility that women from the Asháninka community face for maternal care in public health services are evident. So, the Peruvian government must review the implementation processes of its models of care and maternal health programs in these communities and propose strategies to improve the coverage, quality and continuity of maternal care.

Estimating mortality and disability in Peru before the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic analysis from the Global Burden of the Disease Study 2019.

Background: Estimating and analyzing trends and patterns of health loss are essential to promote efficient resource allocation and improve Peru's healthcare system performance. Methods: Using estimates from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD), Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (2019), we assessed mortality and disability in Peru from 1990 to 2019. We report demographic and epidemiologic trends in terms of population, life expectancy at birth (LE), mortality, incidence, prevalence, years of life lost (YLLs), years lived with disability (YLDs), and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) caused by the major diseases and risk factors in Peru. Finally, we compared Peru with 16 countries in the Latin American (LA) region. Results: The Peruvian population reached 33.9 million inhabitants (49.9% women) in 2019. From 1990 to 2019, LE at birth increased from 69.2 (95% uncertainty interval 67.8-70.3) to 80.3 (77.2-83.2) years. This increase was driven by the decline in under-5 mortality (-80.7%) and mortality from infectious diseases in older age groups (+60 years old). The number of DALYs in 1990 was 9.2 million (8.5-10.1) and reached 7.5 million (6.1-9.0) in 2019. The proportion of DALYs due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) increased from 38.2% in 1990 to 67.9% in 2019. The all-ages and age-standardized DALYs rates and YLLs rates decreased, but YLDs rates remained constant. In 2019, the leading causes of DALYs were neonatal disorders, lower respiratory infections (LRIs), ischemic heart disease, road injuries, and low back pain. The leading risk factors associated with DALYs in 2019 were undernutrition, high body mass index, high fasting plasma glucose, and air pollution. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Peru experienced one of the highest LRIs-DALYs rates in the LA region. Conclusion: In the last three decades, Peru experienced significant improvements in LE and child survival and an increase in the burden of NCDs and associated disability. The Peruvian healthcare system must be redesigned to respond to this epidemiological transition. The new design should aim to reduce premature deaths and maintain healthy longevity, focusing on effective coverage and treatment of NCDs and reducing and managing the related disability.

Replacement of core team members on embedded implementation research teams: experiences from Latin America and the Caribbean.

Objective: To understand how replacement of decision-makers (DMs) serving as principal investigators (PI) or co-PIs on research teams may affect the feasibility and value of embedded implementation research (EIR) used to improve health policies, programs, and services in Latin America and the Caribbean. Methods: This was a descriptive qualitative study based on 39 semistructured interviews with 13 embedded research teams selected by financing agencies to explore team composition, interaction among members, and research results. Interviews were conducted at three points during the study period from September 2018 to November 2019; data were analyzed from 2020 to 2021. Results: Research teams were found to be operating in one of three situations: (i) permanent core team (no change) with either active DM or inactive DM participation; (ii) replacement of DM-PI or co-PI that did not affect EIR research; and (iii) replacement of DM-PI that affected EIR. Conclusions: To ensure EIR continuity and stability, research teams should include high-level DMs together with more technical staff performing essential implementation activities. This structure could improve collaboration among professional researchers and ensure greater embeddedness of EIR to strengthen the health system.

Replacement of core team members on embedded implementation research teams: experiences from Latin America and the Caribbean

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To understand how replacement of decision-makers (DMs) serving as principal investigators (PI) or co-PIs on research teams may affect the feasibility and value of embedded implementation research (EIR) used to improve health policies, programs, and services in Latin America and the Caribbean. Methods. This was a descriptive qualitative study based on 39 semistructured interviews with 13 embedded research teams selected by financing agencies to explore team composition, interaction among members, and research results. Interviews were conducted at three points during the study period from September 2018 to November 2019; data were analyzed from 2020 to 2021. Results. Research teams were found to be operating in one of three situations: (i) permanent core team (no change) with either active DM or inactive DM participation; (ii) replacement of DM–PI or co-PI that did not affect EIR research; and (iii) replacement of DM–PI that affected EIR. Conclusions. To ensure EIR continuity and stability, research teams should include high-level DMs together with more technical staff performing essential implementation activities. This structure could improve collab- oration among professional researchers and ensure greater embeddedness of EIR to strengthen the health system.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Comprender de qué manera la sustitución de los responsables de tomar decisiones (RTD) que se desempeñan como investigadores principales (IP) o coinvestigadores principales (coIP) en los equipos de investigación puede incidir en la viabilidad y el valor de la investigación integrada en materia de ejecución (IIME) utilizada con el objetivo de mejorar las políticas, los programas y los servicios de salud en América Latina y el Caribe. Métodos. Este estudio cualitativo descriptivo se basó en 39 entrevistas semiestructuradas realizadas a 13 equipos de investigación integrada seleccionados por organismos de financiación con el objetivo de estudiar la composición de los equipos, la interacción entre sus miembros y los resultados de la investigación. Las entrevistas se realizaron en tres ocasiones durante el período de estudio, que se extendió de septiembre del 2018 a noviembre del 2019; los datos se analizaron entre el 2020 y el 2021. Resultados. Se encontró que los equipos de investigación se desempeñaban en una de las siguientes tres situaciones: a) un equipo central permanente (sin cambios), sea con participación activa del RTD o sin par- ticipación activa del mismo; b) sustitución del RTD–IP o coIP, sin consecuencias para la IIME; y c) sustitución del RTD–IP, con consecuencias para la IIME. Conclusiones. Para asegurar la continuidad y estabilidad de la IIME, los equipos de investigación deberían incluir RTD de alto nivel junto con más personal técnico que lleve a cabo actividades esenciales en materia de ejecución. Esta estructura podría mejorar la colaboración entre los investigadores profesionales y asegurar una mayor integración de la IIME con la finalidad de fortalecer el sistema de salud.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Mapear políticas relacionadas à prevenção e ao controle da resistência aos antimicrobianos na perspectiva da saúde humana no Brasil e sistematizar a evolução histórica dessas políticas. Método. Desenvolveu-se uma revisão de escopo conforme as diretrizes do Instituto Joana Briggs e PRISMA. A busca na literatura foi realizada em dezembro de 2020 nas bases de dados LILACS, PubMed e EMBASE. Utilizaram-se os termos “antimicrobial resistance” AND “Brazil” e sinônimos. Uma pesquisa documental com os mesmos termos foi conduzida nos sites eletrônicos do governo brasileiro até dezembro de 2021. Foram incluídos estudos de todos os desenhos, sem restrição de idioma ou data. Excluíram-se documentos clínicos, revisões e estudos epidemiológicos que não referenciavam políticas de gestão da resistência aos antimicrobianos no Brasil. Para coleta e análise de dados, estabeleceram-se categorias baseadas em documentos da Organização Mundial da Saúde. Resultados. Desde antes da criação do Sistema Único de Saúde, o Brasil possuía políticas relacionadas à resistência aos antimicrobianos, como o Programa Nacional de Imunização e programas de controle de infecção hospitalar. No final das décadas de 1990 e 2000, estabeleceram-se as primeiras políticas específicas sobre resistência aos antimicrobianos (redes e programas de vigilância) e estratégias de educação. Desta- ca-se o Plano de Ação Nacional de Prevenção e Controle da Resistência aos Antimicrobianos no Âmbito da Saúde Única (PAN-BR), de 2018. Conclusões. Apesar do longo histórico de políticas relacionadas à resistência aos antimicrobianos no Brasil, foram identificadas lacunas, sobretudo no monitoramento da utilização de antimicrobianos e na vigilância da resistência aos antimicrobianos. O PAN-BR, primeiro documento de governo elaborado na perspectiva One Health, é um marco nas políticas brasileiras.

Evaluation of Health Promotion Program at the Community Level in Mexico: Is the Program Efficient and Effective?

CONTEXT: Health promotion programs have been encouraged in the Americas since 1990. In Mexico, health program promotion at the community level was implemented by the Ministry of Health in 2001 to encourage community health status improvement. Despite the longtime of its implementation, evaluations of its efficiency and effectiveness are scarce. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficiency of the Healthy Environments and Communities Program (HECP) through 2 means: (1) efficiency of the implementation and (2) technical efficiency, as well as to evaluate its effectiveness. SETTING: Target communities of the HECP of 32 Mexican states during 2013-2017. The HECP developed community interventions to improve community organization, health behaviors, and family and communitarian sanitation. METHODOLOGY: We conducted a cross-sectional study to evaluate the efficiency of HECP implementation and estimated the inclusion of target communities (focalization index), the retention of communities (continuity index), and the desertion of communities in the program (desertion index). To evaluate the adequate use of the program resources (technical efficiency), we used data-enveloped analysis and the Tobit regression model to identify external factors that can influence results. Finally, to evaluate the program's effectiveness, we estimated the index of the communities that improved their health indicators and were certified as healthy (community certification). RESULTS: The median rate of focalization was 3.44 (1.31-85.13); the continuity of communities' rate was 0.50 (0.16-2.67). Regarding technical efficiency to reach healthy communities, only 2 states reached the optimal efficiency (score 1); where the efficiency was adjusted for external factors, 6 states reached a score of 1. The median of global effectiveness was 0.19 (0.01-0.78). We found differences in efficiency and effectiveness scores among states. CONCLUSION: We found lower efficiency of the implementation and technical efficiency, as well as poor effectiveness of the program to reach healthy communities. To achieve HECP purpose, it is necessary to revise its guidelines, improve its strategies to work in communities, and establish the right mechanisms to monitor its implementation. It is essential to focus on the resources used to enhance technical efficiency and effectiveness at the community level.

Relevance and quality of implementation research proposals to face the challenges of public health in Latin-America and the Caribbean.

OBJECTIVES: To analyse the relevance and quality of the research proposals submitted to the 2016 call for proposals for the initiative Improving Programme Implementation through Embedded Research (iPIER-2016) to address current public health challenges in Latin America and the Caribbean. METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study using information from 108 research proposals using quantitative and qualitative methods. We used three frameworks to analyse the relevance of the proposals: The Global Burden of Disease, the WHO Health Systems Conceptual Framework and the Sustainable Development Goals proposed in 2015 by the United Nations. We performed an index to analyse the relevance and quality of the proposals. RESULTS: Twenty seven percent of the proposals have very good relevance, one third of the proposals have quality flaws. This means their research questions are not related to implementation research or their methods are insufficient or inadequate to respond to the objective. CONCLUSIONS: The response to this call is proof of health authorities' interest in research as a tool to improve the implementation of health programs in the region. However, proposals show important variations in terms of relevance and quality among countries and training health staff in programme implementation seems a central requirement.

Replacement of core team members on embedded implementation research teams: experiences from Latin America and the Caribbean / Sustitución de los miembros principales de los equipos de investigación integrada en materia de ejecución: experiencias en América Latina y el Caribe / Substituição de membros essenciais de equipes de pesquisa de implementação incorporada: experiências da América Latina e do Caribe

ABSTRACT Objective. To understand how replacement of decision-makers (DMs) serving as principal investigators (PI) or co-PIs on research teams may affect the feasibility and value of embedded implementation research (EIR) used to improve health policies, programs, and services in Latin America and the Caribbean. Methods. This was a descriptive qualitative study based on 39 semistructured interviews with 13 embedded research teams selected by financing agencies to explore team composition, interaction among members, and research results. Interviews were conducted at three points during the study period from September 2018 to November 2019; data were analyzed from 2020 to 2021. Results. Research teams were found to be operating in one of three situations: (i) permanent core team (no change) with either active DM or inactive DM participation; (ii) replacement of DM-PI or co-PI that did not affect EIR research; and (iii) replacement of DM-PI that affected EIR. Conclusions. To ensure EIR continuity and stability, research teams should include high-level DMs together with more technical staff performing essential implementation activities. This structure could improve collaboration among professional researchers and ensure greater embeddedness of EIR to strengthen the health system.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Comprender de qué manera la sustitución de los responsables de tomar decisiones (RTD) que se desempeñan como investigadores principales (IP) o coinvestigadores principales (coIP) en los equipos de investigación puede incidir en la viabilidad y el valor de la investigación integrada en materia de ejecución (IIME) utilizada con el objetivo de mejorar las políticas, los programas y los servicios de salud en América Latina y el Caribe. Métodos. Este estudio cualitativo descriptivo se basó en 39 entrevistas semiestructuradas realizadas a 13 equipos de investigación integrada seleccionados por organismos de financiación con el objetivo de estudiar la composición de los equipos, la interacción entre sus miembros y los resultados de la investigación. Las entrevistas se realizaron en tres ocasiones durante el período de estudio, que se extendió de septiembre del 2018 a noviembre del 2019; los datos se analizaron entre el 2020 y el 2021. Resultados. Se encontró que los equipos de investigación se desempeñaban en una de las siguientes tres situaciones: a) un equipo central permanente (sin cambios), sea con participación activa del RTD o sin participación activa del mismo; b) sustitución del RTD-IP o coIP, sin consecuencias para la IIME; y c) sustitución del RTD-IP, con consecuencias para la IIME. Conclusiones. Para asegurar la continuidad y estabilidad de la IIME, los equipos de investigación deberían incluir RTD de alto nivel junto con más personal técnico que lleve a cabo actividades esenciales en materia de ejecución. Esta estructura podría mejorar la colaboración entre los investigadores profesionales y asegurar una mayor integración de la IIME con la finalidad de fortalecer el sistema de salud.

RESUMO Objetivo. Entender como a substituição de decisores atuando como investigadores principais ou co-investigadores em equipes de pesquisa pode afetar a viabilidade e o valor da pesquisa de implementação incorporada (EIR, na sigla em inglês), método usado para aprimorar as políticas, programas e serviços de saúde na América Latina e no Caribe. Métodos. Estudo qualitativo e descritivo, baseado em 39 entrevistas semiestruturadas com 13 equipes de pesquisa incorporadas, selecionadas por agências de fomento, para explorar a composição das equipes, a interação entre os membros e os resultados das pesquisas. As entrevistas foram realizadas em três momentos durante o período de estudo, de setembro de 2018 a novembro de 2019. Os dados foram analisados de 2020 a 2021. Resultados. Verificou-se que as equipes de pesquisa se encontravam em uma das seguintes três situações: (i) equipe essencial permanente (sem alteração), com participação ativa ou inativa do decisor; (ii) substituição do decisor (investigador principal ou co-investigador) não afetou a pesquisa EIR; e (iii) substituição do decisor (investigador principal ou co-investigador) afetou a pesquisa EIR. Conclusões. Para garantir a continuidade e estabilidade de pesquisas de EIR, as equipes de pesquisa devem incluir decisores de alto nível, juntamente com pessoal de perfil mais técnico, para realizar atividades essenciais de implementação. Tal estrutura poderia melhorar a colaboração entre pesquisadores profissionais e garantir uma incorporação ainda maior da EIR para fortalecer o sistema de saúde.

Behavioral and normative beliefs that influence Mexican consumers to purchase packaged food in urban supermarkets.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the behavioral and normative believes factors that might have major influence on the decision to buy packaged foods in urban Mexican families. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study in four urban cities of Mexico. Participants responded a self-administered questionnaire (n=3 340) outside of randomly selected supermarkets. A factor analysis was performed to identify what were the main behavioral and normative believes explaining consumers' decision when buying packaged foods. RESULTS: Three factors explained the behavioral beliefs: the quality assessment of packaged foods explained 61% of the variance, products that maintain weight explained 25%, and the emotional experience with foods explained 13%. Three factors explained the normative beliefs: expectations of chil-dren and partner explained 46% of the variance, expectations from the participants' closest friends 23%, and expectation from other family members explained 14%. CONCLUSION: Behavioral and normative beliefs related to assessing the qual-ity of foods and meeting family expectations respectively are the main beliefs factors affecting consumers' packaged food purchase decisions in urban consumers.

Collaboration between health system decision makers and professional researchers to coproduce knowledge, a scoping review.

BACKGROUND: Recent literature uses different terms and approaches to the collaboration between researchers and health system decision-makers in the research process. In 2012, the World Health Organisation proposed to "Embed research within decision-making processes". Yet, important contributions use other terms and perspectives for the same issue. This scoping review aimed to identify these terms, approaches, their application and eventual influence on the utilization of evidence. METHODS: We searched papers published between January 2000 and February 2019 in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese in the databases of PubMed, Scielo, Google Scholar and EBSCOhost, thus accessing MedicLatina, MEDLINE Complete and eBook Collection. Our main inclusion criterion was the participation of health personnel in non-clinical research activities. We considered three domains for in depth analysis: Definition, name and description of the participation of decision makers and health staff; Forms of collaboration and actual/effective participation of health staff in research; Eventual influence on the utilization of research results. RESULTS: We identified 607 articles and selected 74 for full text analysis. Nineteen different terms are currently used in twelve countries to describe the participation of health decision-makers and staff in research activities. Most publications refer to Integrated Knowledge Translation or Embedded Research, and were published in Canada and the United Kingdom. Forty-five papers discuss the participation of health staff in research activities; 20 leading the whole process and 21 as collaborators. CONCLUSIONS: The identification of the different terms and approaches to the close collaboration of health staff and decision-makers with professional researchers is essential to promote its effective application and influence on the utilization of evidence. Yet, it is also necessary to insist in their co-participation throughout the whole investigation process as a relevant way to improve research results uptake, strengthen health systems and advance towards universal health coverage.

Behavioral and normative beliefs that influence Mexican consumers to purchase packaged food in urban supermarkets / Influencia de creencias conductuales y normativas en consumidores mexicanos para la compra de comida empaquetada en supermercados urbanos

Abstract: Objective: To identify the behavioral and normative believes factors that might have major influence on the decision to buy packaged foods in urban Mexican families. Materials and methods: We performed a cross-sectional study in four urban cities of Mexico. Participants responded a self-administered questionnaire (n=3 340) outside of randomly selected supermarkets. A factor analysis was performed to identify what were the main behavioral and normative believes explaining consumers' decision when buying packaged foods. Results: Three factors explained the behavioral beliefs: the quality assessment of packaged foods explained 61% of the variance, products that maintain weight explained 25%, and the emotional experience with foods explained 13%. Three factors explained the normative beliefs: expectations of children and partner explained 46% of the variance, expectations from the participants' closest friends 23%, and expectation from other family members explained 14%. Conclusion: Behavioral and normative beliefs related to assessing the quality of foods and meeting family expectations respectively are the main beliefs factors affecting consumers' packaged food purchase decisions in urban consumers.

Resumen: Objetivo: Identificar las creencias de comportamiento y normativas que tienen mayor influencia en las decisiones de familias urbanas en México para comprar alimentos empaquetados. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal en cuatro ciudades urbanas de México. Los participantes respondieron un cuestionario auto-administrado (n=3 340) a la salida de los supermercados que fueron seleccionados aleatoriamente. Se realizó un análisis factorial para identificar los principales factores de las creencias de comportamiento y normativas que explican la decisión de comprar alimentos empaquetados. Resultados: Tres factores explicaron las creencias conductuales: la evaluación de la calidad de los alimentos empaquetados explicó el 61% de la varianza, productos para control de peso explicaron el 25% y la experiencia emocional con los alimentos el 13%. Tres factores explicaron las creencias normativas: las expectativas de la pareja e hijos explicaron el 46% de la varianza, las expectativas de amigos cercanos el 23% y las expectativas de otros familiares explicaron el 14%. Conclusión: En las creencias conductuales, la evaluación de la calidad de los alimentos y en las creencias normativas, la expectativa de la pareja y los hijos tienen gran influencia en la decisión de compra de alimentos empaquetados en los consumidores de los supermercados urbanos en México.

Delaying sexual onset: outcome of a comprehensive sexuality education initiative for adolescents in public schools.

BACKGROUND: A common risk behavior in adolescence is the early initiation of unprotected sex that exposes adolescents to an unplanned pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections. Schools are an ideal place to strengthen adolescents' sexual knowledge and modify their behavior, guiding them to exercise responsible sexuality. The purpose of this article was to evaluate the knowledge of public secondary school teachers who received training in comprehensive education in sexuality (CES) and estimate the counseling's effect on students' sexual behavior. METHODS: Seventy-five public school teachers were trained in participatory and innovative techniques for CES. The change in teacher knowledge (n = 75) was assessed before and after the training using t-tests, Wilcoxon ranks tests and a Generalized Estimate Equation model. The students' sexual and reproductive behavior was evaluated in intervention (n = 650) and comparison schools (n = 555). We fit a logistic regression model using the students' sexual debut as a dependent variable. RESULTS: Teachers increased their knowledge of sexuality after training from 5.3 to 6.1 (p < 0.01). 83.3% of students in the intervention school reported using a contraceptive method in their last sexual relation, while 58.3% did so in the comparison schools. The students in comparison schools were 4.7 (p < 0.01) times more likely to start sexual initiation than students in the intervention schools. CONCLUSION: Training in CES improved teachers' knowledge about sexual and reproductive health. Students who received counseling from teachers who were trained in participatory and innovative techniques for CES used more contraceptive protection and delayed sexual debut.

Patient- and provider-related factors in the success of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis treatment in Colombia.

OBJECTIVE: To identify patient- and provider-related factors associated with the success of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) treatment in the six municipalities of Colombia with the highest number of MDR-TB cases. METHODS: Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to analyze the association between treatment success (cure or treatment completion) and characteristics of the patients and physicians, nursing professionals, and psychologists involved in their treatment. The importance of knowledge in the management of MDR-TB cases was explored through focus groups with these providers. RESULTS: Of 128 cases of TB-MDR, 63 (49.2%) experienced treatment success. Only 52.9% of the physicians and nursing professionals had satisfactory knowledge about MDR-TB. Logistic regression showed that being HIV negative, being affiliated with the contributory health insurance scheme, being cared for by a male physician, and being cared for by nursing professionals with sufficient knowledge were associated with a successful treatment outcome (p ≤ 0.05). Qualitative analysis showed the need for in-depth, systematic training of health personnel who care for patients with MDR-TB. CONCLUSIONS: Some characteristics of patients and healthcare providers influence treatment success in MDR-TB cases. Physicians' and nurses' knowledge about MDR-TB must be improved, and follow-up of MDR-TB patients who are living with HIV and of those affiliated with the subsidized health insurance scheme in Colombia must be strengthened, as these patients have a lower likelihood of a successful treatment outcome.

Sustainability of the Healthy Municipalities Strategy in Guatemala.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the sustainability of the Healthy Municipalities strategy in Guatemala in order to have solid evidence to support decision-making. METHODS: A concurrent mixed-methods study was carried out in five phases: 1) theoretical-conceptual (based on a narrative review of the literature on sustainability, dimensions and categories were proposed for evaluation); 2) empirical (four municipalities were selected for convenience and 29 semi-structured interviews and four focus groups were conducted with key actors to explore sustainability; with this information, a score was assigned to each category and dimension); 3) analytical, by category and dimension (content analysis was performed for qualitative information, and totals and averages were calculated for quantitative information); 4) integrative (qualitative data were integrated into matrices by category and dimension, and quantitative data were supported by qualitative information); and 5) meta-inference (consideration was given to the context and its influence on the results). RESULTS: Ninety-two (92) informants participated. In operational terms, progress was observed in the transfer and use of results, and in rotations in leadership. In the legal and political sphere, accountability and local planning were highlighted. In the economic sphere, progressive investment in health, water and sanitation was emphasized, as well as insufficient investment in social determinants of health. In the social sphere, few mechanisms were observed to promote and strengthen social participation. CONCLUSIONS: In the municipalities that participated in the study, a fair level of sustainability was observed in the Healthy Municipalities strategy.

Patient- and provider-related factors in the success of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis treatment in Colombia

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To identify patient- and provider-related factors associated with the success of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) treatment in the six municipalities of Colombia with the highest number of MDR-TB cases. Methods. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to analyze the association between treatment success (cure or treatment completion) and characteristics of the patients and physicians, nursing professionals, and psychologists involved in their treatment. The importance of knowledge in the management of MDR-TB cases was explored through focus groups with these providers. Results. Of 128 cases of TB-MDR, 63 (49.2%) experienced treatment success. Only 52.9% of the physicians and nursing professionals had satisfactory knowledge about MDR-TB. Logistic regression showed that being HIV negative, being affiliated with the contributory health insurance scheme, being cared for by a male physician, and being cared for by nursing professionals with sufficient knowledge were associated with a successful treatment outcome (p ≤ 0.05). Qualitative analysis showed the need for in-depth, systematic training of health personnel who care for patients with MDR-TB. Conclusions. Some characteristics of patients and healthcare providers influence treatment success in MDR-TB cases. Physicians’ and nurses’ knowledge about MDR-TB must be improved, and follow-up of MDR-TB patients who are living with HIV and of those affiliated with the subsidized health insurance scheme in Colombia must be strengthened, as these patients have a lower likelihood of a successful treatment outcome.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Identificar los factores asociados con el éxito del tratamiento de tuberculosis multidrogorresistente (TB-MDR) relacionados con los pacientes y el personal sanitario en seis municipios de Colombia con mayor número de casos. Métodos. Mediante regresiones logísticas bifactorial y multifactorial se analizó la asociación entre el tratamiento exitoso (curación o cumplimiento del tratamiento) y las características de los pacientes, y de los médicos, profesionales de enfermería y psicólogos vinculados al tratamiento. Se exploró la importancia del conocimiento en el manejo de los casos de TB-MDR mediante grupos focales con esos profesionales. Resultados. De los 128 casos con TB-MDR, 63 (49,2%) tuvieron un tratamiento exitoso. Solo 52,9% de los médicos y profesionales de enfermería tenía conocimientos satisfactorios sobre TB-MDR. La regresión logística mostró que ser negativo al VIH, estar afiliado al régimen de aseguramiento de salud contributivo, estar atendido por un médico del sexo masculino y por profesionales de enfermería con conocimientos suficientes se asociaron con un desenlace exitoso del tratamiento (p ≤ 0,05). El análisis cualitativo mostró la necesidad de profundizar y sistematizar la capacitación del personal sanitario que atiende los casos de TB-MDR. Conclusiones. En el éxito del tratamiento de los casos de TB-MDR influyen algunas características de los pacientes y el personal sanitario. Se requiere fortalecer los conocimientos sobre TB-MDR de médicos y enfermeros, y reforzar el seguimiento de los pacientes con TB-MDR positivos al VIH y de los que pertenecen al régimen subsidiado, dada su menor probabilidad de éxito al tratamiento.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Identificar os fatores associados ao êxito do tratamento da tuberculose multirresistente (TBMR) relacionados ao paciente e à equipe de saúde nos seis municípios da Colômbia com o maior número de casos. Métodos. Mediante regressão logística bifatorial e multifatorial, analisou-se a associação entre o êxito do tratamento (cura ou completude do tratamento) e as características dos pacientes e dos médicos, profissionais de enfermagem e psicólogos envolvidos neste. Explorou-se a importância do conhecimento no manejo de casos de TBMR mediante grupos focais com os mesmos profissionais. Resultados. Dos 128 casos de TBMR, 63 (49.2%) lograram êxito no tratamento. Somente 52.9% dos médicos e profissionais de enfermagem tinham conhecimentos satisfatórios sobre TBMR. A regressão logística demonstrou que soronegatividade para o HIV, cobertura pelo sistema de saúde sob o regime de contribuinte, atendimento por um médico do sexo masculino e atendimento por profissionais de enfermagem com conhecimento suficiente foram fatores associados ao êxito do tratamento (p ≤ 0,05). A análise qualitativa demonstrou necessidade de aprofundar e sistematizar a capacitação do pessoal de saúde que atende casos de TBMR. Conclusões. Algumas características do paciente e da equipe de saúde influenciam no êxito do tratamento de casos de TBMR. É preciso fortalecer os conhecimentos dos médicos e profissionais de enfermagem sobre a TBMR e reforçar o seguimento dos pacientes com TBMR que vivem com HIV e os filiados ao sistema de saúde colombiano pelo regime subsidiado, os quais têm menor probabilidade de êxito do tratamento.

Sustainability of the Healthy Municipalities Strategy in Guatemala

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. Evaluate the sustainability of the Healthy Municipalities strategy in Guatemala in order to have solid evidence to support decision-making. Methods. A concurrent mixed-methods study was carried out in five phases: 1) theoretical-conceptual (based on a narrative review of the literature on sustainability, dimensions and categories were proposed for evaluation); 2) empirical (four municipalities were selected for convenience and 29 semi-structured interviews and four focus groups were conducted with key actors to explore sustainability; with this information, a score was assigned to each category and dimension); 3) analytical, by category and dimension (content analysis was performed for qualitative information, and totals and averages were calculated for quantitative information); 4) integrative (qualitative data were integrated into matrices by category and dimension, and quantitative data were supported by qualitative information); and 5) meta-inference (consideration was given to the context and its influence on the results). Results. Ninety-two (92) informants participated. In operational terms, progress was observed in the transfer and use of results, and in rotations in leadership. In the legal and political sphere, accountability and local planning were highlighted. In the economic sphere, progressive investment in health, water and sanitation was emphasized, as well as insufficient investment in social determinants of health. In the social sphere, few mechanisms were observed to promote and strengthen social participation. Conclusions. In the municipalities that participated in the study, a fair level of sustainability was observed in the Healthy Municipalities strategy.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Evaluar la sostenibilidad de la estrategia Municipios Saludables en Guatemala, para disponer de evidencia sólida que permita apoyar la toma de decisiones. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio mixto concurrente en cinco fases: 1) teórica-conceptual, se realizó una revisión narrativa de literatura en sostenibilidad, con base en la cual se propusieron dimensiones y categorías para su evaluación; 2) empírica, se seleccionaron por conveniencia cuatro municipios y se realizaron 29 entrevistas semiestructuradas y cuatro grupos focales a actores clave para explorar la sostenibilidad; con esta información, se asignó un puntaje a cada categoría y dimensión; 3) analítica, por categoría y dimensión, se realizó el análisis del contenido para la información cualitativa y sumatorias y promedios para la información cuantitativa; 4) integrativa, los datos cualitativos se integraron en matrices por categoría y dimensión; y los datos cuantitativos se respaldaron con información cualitativa; y 5) metainferencia, se reflexionó sobre el contexto y su influencia en los resultados. Resultados. Participaron 92 informantes. En la dimensión operativa, se destacan avances en la transferencia y el uso de resultados, así como en el relevo de liderazgo. En la dimensión legal y política, se destacaron la rendición de cuentas y los planes locales. En la dimensión económica, se destacó la inversión progresiva en salud, agua y saneamiento, con deficiencia de inversiones en determinantes sociales de la salud. En la dimensión social, se observaron pocos mecanismos para impulsar y fortalecer la participación social. Conclusiones. En los municipios que participaron del estudio se observó un nivel regular de sostenibilidad de la estrategia Municipios Saludables.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Avaliar a sustentabilidade da estratégia de Municípios Saudáveis na Guatemala para dispor de evidências sólidas para apoiar o processo decisório. Métodos. Foi realizado um estudo de método misto concorrente em cinco fases: 1) fase teórica-conceitual em que foi feita a revisão narrativa da literatura em sustentabilidade a partir da qual foram propostas dimensões e categorias a serem avaliadas; 2) fase empírica em que foi feita a seleção por conveniência de quatro municípios, com 29 entrevistas semiestruturadas e quatro grupos de discussão com as principais partes interessadas para explorar a sustentabilidade; a partir das informações coletadas, foi dada uma pontuação a cada categoria e dimensão; 3) fase analítica, por categoria e dimensão, em que foi realizada a análise do conteúdo para os dados qualitativos e feito o cálculo de somatórias e médias para os dados quantitativos; 4) fase integrativa em que os dados qualitativos foram integrados em matrizes por categoria e dimensão e os dados quantitativos foram respaldados com a informação qualitativa e 5) metainferência em que foi analisado o contexto e sua influência nos resultados. Resultados. O estudo incluiu 92 participantes. Na dimensão operacional, destacam-se os avanços na transferência e no uso de resultados, bem como a ênfase em liderança. Na dimensão jurídico-política, destacam-se a prestação de contas e os planos locais. Na dimensão econômica, destaca-se o investimento progressivo em saúde, água e saneamento, com investimento inadequado nos determinantes sociais da saúde. Na dimensão social, observam-se poucos mecanismos para incentivar e reforçar a participação social. Conclusões. Foi observado nos municípios participantes do estudo um nível constante de sustentabilidade da estratégia de Municípios Saudáveis.

[Patient- and provider-related factors in the success of multidrug tuberculosis treatment in ColombiaFatores de êxito do tratamento da tuberculose multirresistente relacionados com o paciente e com a equipe de saúde na Colômbia]. / Factores de éxito del tratamiento de la tuberculosis multidrogorresistente relacionados con el paciente y el personal sanitario en Colombia.

OBJECTIVE: To identify patient- and provider-related factors associated with the success of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) treatment in the six municipalities of Colombia with the highest number of MDR-TB cases. METHODS: Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to analyze the association between treatment success (cure or treatment completion) and characteristics of the patients and physicians, nursing professionals, and psychologists involved in their treatment. The importance of knowledge in the management of MDR-TB cases was explored through focus groups with these providers. RESULTS: Of 128 cases of TB-MDR, 63 (49.2%) experienced treatment success. Only 52.9% of the physicians and nursing professionals had satisfactory knowledge about MDR-TB. Logistic regression showed that being HIV negative, being affiliated with the contributory health insurance scheme, being cared for by a male physician, and being cared for by nursing professionals with sufficient knowledge were associated with a successful treatment outcome (p ≤ 0.05). Qualitative analysis showed the need for in-depth, systematic training of health personnel who care for patients with MDR-TB. CONCLUSIONS: Some characteristics of patients and healthcare providers influence treatment success in MDR-TB cases. Physicians' and nurses' knowledge about MDR-TB must be improved, and follow-up of MDR-TB patients who are living with HIV and of those affiliated with the subsidized health insurance scheme in Colombia must be strengthened, as these patients have a lower likelihood of a successful treatment outcome.

OBJETIVO: Identificar os fatores associados ao êxito do tratamento da tuberculose multirresistente (TBMR) relacionados ao paciente e à equipe de saúde nos seis municípios da Colômbia com o maior número de casos. MÉTODOS: Mediante regressão logística bifatorial e multifatorial, analisou-se a associação entre o êxito do tratamento (cura ou completude do tratamento) e as características dos pacientes e dos médicos, profissionais de enfermagem e psicólogos envolvidos neste. Explorou-se a importância do conhecimento no manejo de casos de TBMR mediante grupos focais com os mesmos profissionais. RESULTADOS: Dos 128 casos de TBMR, 63 (49.2%) lograram êxito no tratamento. Somente 52.9% dos médicos e profissionais de enfermagem tinham conhecimentos satisfatórios sobre TBMR. A regressão logística demonstrou que soronegatividade para o HIV, cobertura pelo sistema de saúde sob o regime de contribuinte, atendimento por um médico do sexo masculino e atendimento por profissionais de enfermagem com conhecimento suficiente foram fatores associados ao êxito do tratamento (p ≤ 0,05). A análise qualitativa demonstrou necessidade de aprofundar e sistematizar a capacitação do pessoal de saúde que atende casos de TBMR. CONCLUSÕES: Algumas características do paciente e da equipe de saúde influenciam no êxito do tratamento de casos de TBMR. É preciso fortalecer os conhecimentos dos médicos e profissionais de enfermagem sobre a TBMR e reforçar o seguimento dos pacientes com TBMR que vivem com HIV e os filiados ao sistema de saúde colombiano pelo regime subsidiado, os quais têm menor probabilidade de êxito do tratamento.

[Sustainability of the Healthy Municipalities strategy in GuatemalaSustentabilidade da estratégia de Municípios Saudáveis na Guatemala]. / Sostenibilidad de la estrategia Municipios Saludables en Guatemala.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the sustainability of the Healthy Municipalities strategy in Guatemala in order to have solid evidence to support decision-making. METHODS: A concurrent mixed-methods study was carried out in five phases: 1) theoretical-conceptual (based on a narrative review of the literature on sustainability, dimensions and categories were proposed for evaluation); (2) empirical (four municipalities were selected for convenience and 29 semi-structured interviews and four focus groups were conducted with key actors to explore sustainability; with this information, a score was assigned to each category and dimension); (3) analytical, by category and dimension (content analysis was performed for qualitative information, and totals and averages were calculated for quantitative information); (4) integrative (qualitative data were integrated into matrices by category and dimension, and quantitative data were supported by qualitative information); and 5) meta-inference (consideration was given to the context and its influence on the results). RESULTS: Ninety-two (92) informants participated. In operational terms, progress was observed in the transfer and use of results, and in rotations in leadership. In the legal and political sphere, accountability and local planning were highlighted. In the economic sphere, progressive investment in health, water and sanitation was emphasized, as well as insufficient investment in social determinants of health. In the social sphere, few mechanisms were observed to promote and strengthen social participation. CONCLUSIONS: In the municipalities that participated in the study, a fair level of sustainability was observed in the Healthy Municipalities strategy.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a sustentabilidade da estratégia de Municípios Saudáveis na Guatemala para dispor de evidências sólidas para apoiar o processo decisório. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo de método misto concorrente em cinco fases: 1) fase teórica-conceitual em que foi feita a revisão narrativa da literatura em sustentabilidade a partir da qual foram propostas dimensões e categorias a serem avaliadas; 2) fase empírica em que foi feita a seleção por conveniência de quatro municípios, com 29 entrevistas semiestruturadas e quatro grupos de discussão com as principais partes interessadas para explorar a sustentabilidade; a partir das informações coletadas, foi dada uma pontuação a cada categoria e dimensão; 3) fase analítica, por categoria e dimensão, em que foi realizada a análise do conteúdo para os dados qualitativos e feito o cálculo de somatórias e médias para os dados quantitativos; 4) fase integrativa em que os dados qualitativos foram integrados em matrizes por categoria e dimensão e os dados quantitativos foram respaldados com a informação qualitativa e 5) metainferência em que foi analisado o contexto e sua influência nos resultados. RESULTADOS: O estudo incluiu 92 participantes. Na dimensão operacional, destacam-se os avanços na transferência e no uso de resultados, bem como a ênfase em liderança. Na dimensão jurídico-política, destacam-se a prestação de contas e os planos locais. Na dimensão econômica, destaca-se o investimento progressivo em saúde, água e saneamento, com investimento inadequado nos determinantes sociais da saúde. Na dimensão social, observam-se poucos mecanismos para incentivar e reforçar a participação social. CONCLUSÕES: Foi observado nos municípios participantes do estudo um nível constante de sustentabilidade da estratégia de Municípios Saudáveis.

Embedded implementation research determinants in Latin American health systems.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the determinants of embedded implementation research (EIR) conduct in seven Latin American and Caribbean countries. METHODS: This qualitative interpretative study conducted and analyzed 14 semi-structured interviews based on a grounded theory approach using Atlas-ti© 7.5.7. We grouped the conditions appointed by interviewees as determinants of EIR conduct into six domains. RESULTS: The participation of high-level engaged decision makers as research co-producers is an important EIR determinant that fosters research use. Nevertheless, EIR faces challenges such as dealing with key personnel changes and fluctuating political contexts. CONCLUSIONS: Despite its limitations, EIR is effective in creating a sense of ownership of research results among implementers, which helps bridge the gap between research and decision-making in health systems.

[Embedding research into health services in Latin America and the Caribbean: experiences and challenges of the Technical Support CenterExperiências e desafios do Centro de Apoio Técnico na pesquisa integrada aos serviços na América Latina e Caribe]. / Experiencias y retos del Centro de Apoyo Técnico en la investigación integrada en los servicios en América Latina y el Caribe.

This article describes the main models for embedding research and the successful experiences and challenges faced in joint work by researchers and decisionmakers who participated in the Embedding Research for the Sustainable Development Goals (ER-SDG) initiative, and the experience of the Technical Support Center. In June 2018, funding was granted to 13 pre-selected research projects from 11 middle- and low-income countries in Latin America and the Caribbean (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Paraguay, and Peru). The projects focused on the system-, policy-, or program-level changes required to improve health and build on the joint work of researchers and decisionmakers, with a view to bringing together evidence production and decision-making in health systems and services. The Technical Support Center supported and guided the production of quality results useful for decision-making. This experience confirmed the value of initiatives such as ER-SDG in consolidating bridges between research on the implementation of health policies, programs, and systems, and the officials responsible for operating health-related programs, services, and interventions. It highlighted the importance of both respecting and taking advantage of each context-and the specific arrangements and patterns in the relationships between researchers and decisionmakers-through incentives for embedded research.

Neste artigo são descritos os principais modelos de integração, as experiências de êxito e os desafios do trabalho conjunto de pesquisadores e responsáveis por tomar decisões que participam da iniciativa Incorporação da Pesquisa para Avançar no Cumprimento dos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (Embedding Research for the Sustainable Development Goals, ER-SDG) e da experiência do Centro de Apoio Técnico (CAT). Em junho de 2018, realizou-se a concessão de financiamento e pré-seleção de 13 projetos de pesquisa provenientes de 11 países de baixa e média renda da América Latina e Caribe (Argentina, Bolívia, Brasil, Colômbia, Equador, Guatemala, Guiana, Haiti, Paraguai, Peru e República Dominicana). Os projetos deveriam enfocar as mudanças necessárias no sistema, políticas ou programas para melhorar a saúde e fundar-se no trabalho conjunto de pesquisadores e responsáveis por tomar decisões visando aproximar a produção de evidências à tomada de decisão nos sistemas e serviços de saúde. O CAT forneceu suporte e orientação à produção de resultados úteis e de qualidade para a tomada de decisão. A experiência confirmou o valor de iniciativas como a ER-SDG para consolidar pontes entre o mundo da pesquisa voltada à implementação de políticas, programas e sistemas de saúde e o mundo dos encarregados de gerir estes programas, serviços e intervenções de saúde. Deve-se enfatizar a necessidade de respeitar e aproveitar cada contexto e os arranjos e padrões próprios da relação entre pesquisadores e responsáveis por tomar decisões criando incentivos à integração.

Embedding research into health services in Latin America and the Caribbean: experiences and challenges of the Technical Support Center.

This article describes the main models for embedding research and the successful experiences and challenges faced in joint work by researchers and decisionmakers who participated in the Embedding Research for the Sustainable Development Goals (ER-SDG) initiative, and the experience of the Technical Support Center. In June 2018, funding was granted to 13 pre-selected research projects from 11 middle- and low-income countries in Latin America and the Caribbean (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Paraguay, and Peru). The projects focused on the system-, policy-, or program-level changes required to improve health and build on the joint work of researchers and decisionmakers, with a view to bringing together evidence production and decision-making in health systems and services. The Technical Support Center supported and guided the production of quality results useful for decision-making. This experience confirmed the value of initiatives such as ER-SDG in consolidating bridges between research on the implementation of health policies, programs, and systems, and the officials responsible for operating health-related programs, services, and interventions. It highlighted the importance of both respecting and taking advantage of each context-and the specific arrangements and patterns in the relationships between researchers and decisionmakers-through incentives for embedded research.

En este artículo se describen los principales modelos de integración, las experiencias de éxito y los retos del trabajo conjunto de los investigadores y los tomadores de decisiones participantes en la iniciativa Incorporación de la Investigación para Avanzar en el Cumplimiento de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ER-SDG), y la experiencia del Centro de Apoyo Técnico (CAT). En junio de 2018 se otorgó financiamiento, previa selección, a 13 proyectos de investigación de 11 países de ingresos medios y bajos de América Latina y el Caribe (Argentina, Bolivia, Brasil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haití, Paraguay, Perú y República Dominicana). Los proyectos debían estar centrados en los cambios que se requieren a nivel de sistema, políticas o programas para mejorar la salud y basarse en el trabajo conjunto de investigadores y tomadores de decisiones, a fin de acercar la generación de evidencias a la toma de decisiones en los sistemas y servicios de salud. El CAT apoyó y orientó la producción de resultados de calidad y de utilidad para la toma de decisiones. La experiencia confirmó el valor de iniciativas como ER-SDG en la consolidación de puentes entre el mundo de la investigación sobre implementación de políticas, programas y sistemas de salud, y el mundo de los funcionarios encargados de operar esos programas, servicios e intervenciones relacionadas con la salud. Se resalta la necesidad de respetar y aprovechar cada contexto, y los arreglos y patrones específicos de relación entre investigadores y tomadores de decisiones, mediante incentivos para la integración.

Neste artigo são descritos os principais modelos de integração, as experiências de êxito e os desafios do trabalho conjunto de pesquisadores e responsáveis por tomar decisões que participam da iniciativa Incorporação da Pesquisa para Avançar no Cumprimento dos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (Embedding Research for the Sustainable Development Goals, ER-SDG) e da experiência do Centro de Apoio Técnico (CAT). Em junho de 2018, realizou-se a concessão de financiamento e pré-seleção de 13 projetos de pesquisa provenientes de 11 países de baixa e média renda da América Latina e Caribe (Argentina, Bolívia, Brasil, Colômbia, Equador, Guatemala, Guiana, Haiti, Paraguai, Peru e República Dominicana). Os projetos deveriam enfocar as mudanças necessárias no sistema, políticas ou programas para melhorar a saúde e fundar-se no trabalho conjunto de pesquisadores e responsáveis por tomar decisões visando aproximar a produção de evidências à tomada de decisão nos sistemas e serviços de saúde. O CAT forneceu suporte e orientação à produção de resultados úteis e de qualidade para a tomada de decisão. A experiência confirmou o valor de iniciativas como a ER-SDG para consolidar pontes entre o mundo da pesquisa voltada à implementação de políticas, programas e sistemas de saúde e o mundo dos encarregados de gerir estes programas, serviços e intervenções de saúde. Deve-se enfatizar a necessidade de respeitar e aproveitar cada contexto e os arranjos e padrões próprios da relação entre pesquisadores e responsáveis por tomar decisões criando incentivos à integração.