Development of an otitis media strategy in the Pacific: key informant perspectives.

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Development of an otitis media strategy in the Pacific: key informant perspectives.

N Z Med J. 2018 May 18;131(1475):69-76

Authors: Holt E, McCool J, Nosa V, Thorne P

Abstract
AIM: Ear and hearing health services are scarce within Pacific Island countries. Where available, they remain under-resourced, despite there being a high estimated prevalence of otitis media and otitis media-related hearing loss. This study examines the potential for improving ear and hearing health strategies by examining key factors, opportunities and challenges, working with Fiji as a case study.
METHOD: A series of semi-structured interviews were conducted with professionals who had experience in otitis media programme implementation and/or professionals with working experience within the Pacific region and the Fiji health system. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis methods.
RESULTS: The three main themes, Identification, Integration, Sustain, highlight the importance of a Pacific-based, locally-driven strategy that builds on existing infrastructure. Three operational themes, Advocacy, Funding and Long-Term Vision, were pivotal to the viability of the main themes.
CONCLUSION: Despite significant challenges, there is potential to develop sustainable otitis media identification, treatment and prevention strategies in Fiji. The sustainability of such a strategy is contingent on a number of key factors, which includes a long-term commitment by stakeholders, be culturally appropriate and responsive to local need, develop close linkages across health, social and educational sectors, and ensure it is embedded within a broader public health framework.

PMID: 29771904 [PubMed - in process]

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