User-centered TEPI dashboard launched for improved pediatric HIV identification

TEPI dashboard

The Global Programs Tanzania team successfully launched the TEPI (Targeted Enhanced Pediatric Identification) dashboard in May 2024, aiming to enhance HIV case identification among pediatric populations in Tanzania. The dashboard's development focused on user needs, with continuous feedback from implementing partners and field staff in Dodoma, Mbeya, and Mwanza regions. Designed to provide near-real-time data analysis, the dashboard integrates data from systems like CTC-Analytics and UCS, offering visualizations on crucial indicators such as pediatric contacts tested for HIV and early infant diagnosis rates. This approach allows stakeholders to monitor, evaluate, and improve pediatric identification initiatives effectively.

The team's user-centered development process, championed by HIS Director Peter Lubambi and supported by Data Analyst Beatrice Octavian, ensured the dashboard met user expectations while staying on schedule. With the first phase completed, the dashboard is set to address user feedback in its second phase, further enhancing its utility and impact on pediatric HIV identification efforts.

Lab Visual Application Updates

During the spring of 2024, Global Programs Tanzania launched a new version of the Lab Visual application and conducted orientation sessions at seven PCR laboratories across Tanzania. Attendees included representatives from the Ministry of Health, local government authorities, lab managers, ICT officers, the Global Programs team, and implementing partners. During these sessions, the team trained participants on data analysis and interpretation using the Lab Visual Application, while also gathering suggestions for improvements.

Moving forward, the team will hold bi-weekly Zoom meetings with end users to discuss system progress, share experiences, provide feedback on indicators, and offer technical assistance. These efforts aim to enhance laboratory operations and data utilization across all conventional laboratories.

Public Health Response Guide Pilot Phase

During a group discussion in the Kyotera District are (left to right) Aggrey Byaruhanga (MOH), Karija Sylvia (village member), Akampulira Sadress (village member), Aligawesa Paul (VHT), Ronald Kiranda (GP Uganda), Mugerwa Abdu (VHT), Emmy Muramuzi (GP Uganda), Nakalema Florence (Kakuto HC IV), and Alex Mirugwe (METS).

The Recency Public Health Response (PHR) Guide, developed in Uganda, underwent a pilot phase in three districts—Kasanda, Jinja, and Kyotera—to assess its feasibility and effectiveness. The guide aims to pinpoint HIV acquisition hotspots and enhance targeted public health responses.

Teams comprising Ministry of Health officers, technical support members, Global Programs Uganda, implementing partners, and district health teams conducted the pilot. During this phase, the teams analyzed recency infection data, identified high-incidence areas, and engaged with community members to understand HIV transmission drivers, including commercial sex work and substance abuse. Identified gaps, such as insufficient condom distribution and lacking prevention interventions, particularly among key populations like palm tree plantation workers and barmaids, were addressed through community discussions, leading to the development of an action plan.

Overall, the pilot illustrated the PHR guide's effectiveness in hotspot identification and action planning, albeit requiring minor adjustments to some tools.