Perceived barriers and opportunities for the introduction of post-discharge malaria chemoprevention (PDMC) in five sub-Saharan countries: a qualitative survey amongst malaria key stakeholders.

BACKGROUND

Post-discharge malaria chemoprevention (PDMC) is an intervention aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality in patients hospitalized with severe anaemia, with its effectiveness established in several clinical trials. The aim of this study was to better understand factors that would influence the scale up of this intervention, and to identify preferences for two delivery mechanisms, facility-based or community-based.

METHODS

Forty-six qualitative individual interviews were conducted in five sub-Saharan countries amongst malaria key opinion leaders and national decision makers. Findings were analysed following a thematic inductive approach.

RESULTS

Half of participants were familiar with PDMC, with a satisfactory understanding of the intervention. Although PDMC was perceived as beneficial by most respondents, there was some unclarity on the target population. Both delivery approaches were perceived as valuable and potentially complementary. From an adoption perspective, relevant evidence generation, favorable policy environment, and committed funding were identified as key elements for the scale up of PDMC.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that although PDMC was perceived as a relevant tool to prevent malaria, further clarification was needed in terms of the relevant patient population, delivery mechanisms, and more evidence should be generated from implementation research to ensure policy adoption and funding.