Keamari District in Karachi, Pakistan, recently found itself with access to its very own District Health Information System (DHIS) but without proper training to utilize it effectively. Typically, manual records collected at health facilities lacked quality and authenticity and then were poorly digitized by data entry officers when uploaded to the DHIS online portal. These challenges led to calls for immediate capacity strengthening in data management for Keamari’s health workers.
Recognizing the importance of quality data in healthcare delivery, The Challenge Initiative (TCI) in collaboration with District Health Management team of Keamari decided to hold a training session for health facility In-charges and data personnel to standardize data management practices and improve monthly reporting accuracy.
TCI-trained master coaches from neighboring districts, Central and South, stepped in to lead a one-day capacity-strengthening session on data management tools used by the Sindh Government for healthcare management. This collaborative effort was endorsed by government stakeholders, including District Health Officers from Central, South, and Keamari. Their support underscored the importance of cross-district cooperation in addressing healthcare challenges and exemplified the strength of public-public and public-private partnerships.
During the training session, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the DHIS system, focusing on its various sections such as family planning, contraceptive requisitions, patient volume data, and service delivery statistics. Through interactive sessions and practical demonstrations, participants realized the significance of accurate data collection, tabulation, and analysis in informing decision-making processes. The training also facilitated networking and collaboration among participants, fostering a culture of ongoing support and resource sharing.
The impact of this cross-district learning effort was significant. Keamari, previously lacking knowledge in DHIS tools, has made substantial progress. With the assistance of master coaches, the district has developed an indent form for commodity requisitions and rectified errors in family planning uptake records. Furthermore, a color-coding mechanism was introduced to accurately record Postpartum Family Planning (PPFP) service delivery numbers.
The DHIS training initiative in Keamari exemplifies the power of collaboration and knowledge exchange in addressing healthcare challenges. Participants returned to their stations equipped not only with technical expertise but also with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to driving positive change through effective data management practices.
