VaxCare Buddy: Application to manage the workload of public health midwives and optimise the child immunisation process.

Abstract

"The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recognised Public Health Midwives (PHM) for their significant contribution in helping Sri Lanka attain a successful child vaccination rate. The lack of 3000 maternity staff members in Sri Lanka is currently causing concern in the country's health care system. As a result, the workload of PHMs has increased due to the multitude of services that PHMs are required to provide to mothers and children, including family planning, school and adolescent health, antenatal care, and postnatal care. After addressing the aforementioned problems, it was determined that two of the primary activities under their responsibility which require more time and effort are child development monitoring and immunisation. Following the completion of background research, gaps that could be filled with a solution to help streamline the vaccination process and offer accurate information while preserving the relationship between PHMs and guardians/mothers through a platform were evaluated. ""VaxCare Buddy"" is an application for mobile devices designed to assist children under five years old manage their vaccination-related data. Mothers can use the application to verify and remain updated on the schedule for routine immunisations, and PHMs can maintain a tab on it as well. The primary purpose of the functionality is to facilitate and oversee PHMs' work when on field visits. While the more complicated and advanced features are being investigated and considered for potential future implementations, the functioning prototype was developed to showcase the product's essential functionalities. The application's prototype was developed with legal, ethical, and social considerations in mind, in addition to other technical design and development considerations. Experts in the field tested the application to address any flaws or negative aspects. The final remarks included future implementations and recommendations that can be included in the mobile app to make it more effective."