Behavioral and Social Drivers (BeSD) of Immunization and Child Health in Papua New Guinea
Project Abstract
Papua New Guinea (PNG) faces unique challenges in healthcare, with immunization coverage showing stagnation over the past decade. Disparities in healthcare access, especially between urban and rural regions, further exacerbate the situation. The recent global pandemic has brought to light the pressing need for a comprehensive understanding of the behavioral and social factors influencing health outcomes.
The aim of this integrated mixed-methods BeSD study is to identify drivers and barriers to demand and access for maternal and child health and immunization services. The purpose of the study is to determine the influencing factors (barriers, biases, and enablers) associated with reduced routine immunization coverage and infant mortality. The study will be conducted in 18 districts of 9 provinces of PNG across four regions of PNG where the zero dose children are concentrated.
The anticipated outcomes include the development of culturally sensitive, evidence-based strategies and actionable interventions to enhance immunization coverage and child health in PNG.
This study will employ a mixed methods sequential explanatory design, combining qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to gain a comprehensive understanding of the BeSD impacting child health and immunization services.
Qualitative Research:
- Focus Group Discussions (FGDs): FGDs will explore community perceptions, knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes toward immunization and child health services.
- Key Informant Interviews (KIIs): Interviews will provide insights into the traditional and cultural factors affecting immunization uptake.
- Individual In-depth Interviews (IDIs): will provide insights into the systemic and policy-related factors affecting immunization uptake.
Quantitative Research:
- A cross-sectional structured survey will be administered to a diverse group of households to gather data on immunization uptake, barriers, and facilitators, allowing for statistical analysis to identify patterns and correlations.