District health information system (DHIS2) as integrated antimicrobial resistance surveillance platform: An exploratory qualitative investigation of the one health stakeholders’ viewpoints in Ethiopia

Abstract

Introduction There is an unmet need for One Health (OH) surveillance and reporting systems for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in resource poor settings. District health information system, version 2 (DHIS2), is a globally recognized digital surveillance platform which has not been widely utilized for AMR data yet. Our study aimed to understand the local stakeholders’ viewpoints on DHIS2 as OH-AMR surveillance platform in Jimma, Ethiopia which will aid its further context specific establishment. Methods We performed an exploratory qualitative study using semi-structured key informant interviews (KIIs) in Jimma Zone at Southwest Ethiopia. We interviewed 42 OH professionals between November 2020 and February 2021. Following verbatim transcription of the audio recordings of KIIs, we conducted thematic analysis. Results We identified five major themes which are important for understanding the trajectory of OH-AMR surveillance in DHIS2 platform. The themes were: (1) Stakeholders' current knowledge on digital surveillance platforms including DHIS2. (2) Stakeholders' perception on digital surveillance platform including DHIS2. (3) Features suggested by stakeholders to be included in the surveillance platform. (4) Comments from stakeholders on system implementation challenges. (5) Stakeholders' perceived role in the process of implementation. Despite several barriers and challenges, most of the participants perceived and suggested DHIS2 as a suitable OH-AMR surveillance platform and were willing to contribute at their current professional roles. Conclusions Our study demonstrates the potential of the DHIS2 as a user friendly and acceptable interoperable platform for OH-AMR surveillance if the technology designers accommodate the stakeholders’ concerns. Piloting at local level and using performance appraisal tool in all OH disciplines should be the next step before proceeding to workable format.