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ABSTRACT
Background
Patent and proprietary medicine vendors (PPMVs) are widespread in communities and can potentially be used to expand access to routine immunization especially in underserved areas. In this study, we aimed to assess their readiness to implement routine immunization in Kano, Nigeria and identify factors associated with it.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional survey of PPMVs aged 18 years and above in Kano metropolis, Nigeria, using cluster sampling technique. A 10-item Likert scale-based measure was used to estimate readiness score. The relationship between selected factors and readiness score was examined using multilevel linear modeling technique.
Results
A total of 455 PPMVs with median age of 36 years participated in the study. The median raw score for readiness was 4.7 (IQR: 4.3 – 4-8) (maximum obtainable was 5). The mean readiness score (obtained through factor analysis) was 5.28 (SD: 0.58). Readiness score was associated with factors such as knowledge of immunization and task demand, engagement by other public health programs among others.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated the feasibility of measuring the level of readiness for implementing routine immunization among PPMVs. Given the high level of readiness, policy makers should consider the possibility of expanding access to immunization through PPMVs.
Author contributions
A A Adamu conceptualized the study and developed the first draft. A A Adamu, M A Gadanya, R I Jalo, O A Uthman, C A Nnaji, I W Bello, and C S Wiysonge contributed to data analysis and interpretation of results, development of subsequent drafts of the manuscripts.
Declaration of interest
A A Adamu is an affiliate of Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, South Africa. M A Gadanya and R I Jalo are civil servants and lecturers. O A Uthman receives support from the National Institute of Health’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) funding. C A Nnaji is a doctoral student in the department of public health, University of Cape Town. I W Bello is a civil servant at the ministry of health. C S Wiysonge is supported by the South African Medical Research Council. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.
Reviewer disclosures
Peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.