Authors:
Mpanya A, Boelaert M, Baloji S, Matangila J, Lubanza S, Bottieau E, Chappuis F, Lutumba P, Hendrickx D
Authors notes:
PLoS ONE. 2014;9(10):e110167
Keywords:
Neurological disorders, rural health centres, clinical management, patient perception, diagnostic tools
Abstract:
Neurological disorders of infectious origin are common in rural sub-Saharan Africa and usually have serious consequences.
Unfortunately, these syndromes are often poorly documented for lack of diagnostic tools.
Clinical management of these diseases is a major challenge in under-equipped rural health centers and hospitals.
We documented health care provider knowledge, attitudes and practices related to this syndrome in two rural health zones in Bandundu Province, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Care providers in this region usually limit their diagnostic work-up to clinical examination primarily because of the financial hurdles in this entirely out-of-pocket payment system.
The patients prefer to purchase drugs rather than diagnostic tests.
Moreover the general lack of diagnostic tools and the representation of the clinician as a "diviner" do not enhance any use of laboratory or other diagnostic methods.
Innovation in diagnostic technology for neurological disorders is badly needed in Central-Africa, but its uptake in clinical practice will only be a success if tools are simple, affordable and embedded in a patient-centered approach.