Reasons for low uptake of referrals to ear and hearing services for children in Malawi.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Early detection and appropriate intervention for children with hearing impairment is important for maximizing functioning and quality of life. The lack of ear and hearing services in low income countries is a significant challenge, however, evidence suggests that even where such services are available, and children are referred to them, uptake is low. The aim of this study was to assess uptake of and barriers to referrals to ear and hearing services for children in Thyolo District, Malawi.

Methods

This was a mixed methods study. A survey was conducted with 170 caregivers of children who were referred for ear and hearing services during community-based screening camps to assess whether they had attended their referral and reasons for non-attendance. Semi-structured

SUBMITTER: Bright T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5736203 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature