Utilization of Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses IMCI for Child health in Western Kenya

Abstract

Implementation of integrated management of childhood illness (IMCI) in comprehensive and holistic approach that forms bench mark for basic child health in promoting celebration of fifth birth day for children below five years of age, free from Malaria, Pneumonia, Diarrhea, Measles and Malnutrition  (WHO, 1999).

Studies by World health organization (WHO) and United Nations for Children’s fund (UNICEF) show that majority (90%) of Sub Saharan Africa countries have benefited from IMCI program. However in Western Kenya like whole nation it remains unexplained, though it was started in 1999 and is being implemented in spots to enhance MDG 4 of vision 2030, (WHO, 1999).

Western Kenya like the Trans Nzoia County, IMCI was initiated a decade ago but still staggering and needs substantial support from National IMCI unit through introduction of IMCI modules in pre-service and post – basic training to all Kenya medical training institutions, supporting community participation to yolk perceived traditional / environmental factors and enhance quality perceptions in IMCI utilization in child health care. Never the less, holistic and comprehensive achievement in utilization and application of IMCI program in the region remains unclear, (DDP, 2005).  Child health is a basic requirement for his/ her fifth birth day celebration, but is hindered by regular overlapping signs and symptoms in Malaria, Pneumonia, Diarrhea, Measles and Malnutrition, (WHO, 1999)

The study aims, to assess the association of IMCI training to under fives health delivery, how environmental factors are influencing community participation and overall community perceptions, towards utilization of IMCI concepts, in order to achieve MDG 4, (MDG, 2004).

The results were skewed from a cross sectional description done, and hence provided corrective measures and innovations on existing challenges in IMCI implementation.  Recommendation were made in 3 stages: further research, Policy amendments and need to enhance Public Private Partnership (PPP)