Impact of Strategic Plan Implementation on Management and Production of Quality Health Data: Evidence from Gambia
Bubacarr M. Fatty *
Department of Economics and Finance, School of Business and Public Administration, University of the Gambia, Gambia.
Saihou Jawara *
Department of Economics and Finance, School of Business and Public Administration, University of the Gambia, Gambia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Strategic plan implementation involves the execution of strategies and actions outlined in organisational strategic plans to achieve desired goals and objectives. It is expected to enhance the timeliness of health data collection and reporting processes.
Aims: This study assesses the impact of Strategic Plan Implementation on the management and production of quality Health Data in the Gambia. Specifically, it examines its effect on the timeliness of health data collection and reporting, as well as the reliability and accuracy of health data.
Methodology: The study focuses on health professionals engaged in health data management within the Gambia's health sector. A quantitative research design was adopted, and a purposive sampling technique was applied to determine sample size. The sample size consists of all 54 targeted individuals. The questionnaires were administered electronically to the selected participants using online Google survey forms. Descriptive analysis was applied to Quantitative data collected through a questionnaire using a statistical software called SPSS V27, while regression analysis was employed to examine relationships between independent and dependent variables.
Results: The research findings revealed considerable diversity in perceptions regarding the timeliness of health data collection and reporting, influenced by socio-demographic variables such as gender, age, professional role, and years of experience. Perceptions of improvements in data accuracy and consistency have emerged since the strategic plan's implementation, indicating that effective interventions resonate across diverse groups. However, a significant proportion of respondents reported challenges in implementing the strategic plan, including lack of resources (66.7%), inadequate support from leadership (44.4%), data quality issues (59.3%), and regulatory or compliance barriers (55.6%). Overall, the results revealed that the implementation of a well-structured strategic plan significantly impacts the management and production of quality health data.
Conclusion: The positive outcome of the study not only underscores the effectiveness of strategic planning in improving data practices but also highlights its potential to strengthen health systems in The Gambia, ultimately contributing to better healthcare delivery and informed decision-making. The results suggest further avenues for research and policy development aimed at optimising health data management practices in similar contexts.
Keywords: Strategic plan, timely health data, reliable health data, relevant health data, quality health data, management of health data