Vaccine Logistics Management Information System at Public Health Facilities in Amhara Region, Ethiopia: A Performance Evaluation.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of vaccine logistics management information systems at public health facilities in Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

METHODS

An institution-based concurrent explanatory mixed design was used at public health facilities in Amhara Region, Ethiopia. In total, 102 health facilities were selected using the multi-stage, stratified, random-sampling proportionate-to-size method. Data were collected using a structured data abstraction checklist from vaccine logistics management information system records. Additionally, experiences of Expanded Program for Immunization focal persons were gathered through interviewer-administered questionnaires.

RESULTS

Among the 102 health facilities surveyed, 99 (97.1%) provided vaccination services during the study period. On the day of the visit, the average availability and utilization rates of 15 vaccine logistics management information system forms were 44.1% and 40.5%, respectively. The mean inventory accuracy for tracer vaccines stood at 58.3% ± 45.1%. The overall average accuracy percentages for urban and rural vaccine request form reports were 73.4% and 69.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The performance of vaccine logistics management information systems in these public health facilities was suboptimal. Key issues identified include inconsistent use of recording forms, shortages of reporting forms, lack of digitalization, poor data quality, and a shortage of qualified staff. These findings underscore the urgent need for standardization of the vaccine logistics management information system and enhancement of data quality.