User perceptions of the quality of nutrition care for children under five year in Botswana

Abstract

Perceptions about the quality of healthcare attract a great deal of attention due to their influence on user satisfaction and the continued utilization of health services. The objective was to examine the perceptions of caregivers and healthcare providers about nutrition care for children aged 0-5 years and the interpersonal communication between providers and caregivers in health facilities in Botswana. Ten focus group discussions involving about six caregivers each and survey data from health providers (n = 39) were used to examine perceptions about nutrition care for children aged 0-5 years and interpersonal communications between providers and caregivers. Caregivers examined in this study perceived nutrition and dietary screening and intervention as important components of healthcare for children. However the caregivers were concerned about the frequent shortage of food supplements the lack of alternative food supplements and programs for children whose needs were not adequately met by existing services. Poor interpersonal communication between providers and caregivers shortage of supplements and long queues were also identified as concerns by both caregivers and health providers. Although health care service providers reported to have been trained to provide nutrition and dietary care many were not satisfied with their present skill level in these areas. The caregivers perceived nutrition care to be an important aspect of care. However the poor interpersonal communication between providers and caregivers and the low confidence that providers have in their skill level in nutrition care is likely to adversely influence the dependent care abilities of caregivers. (authors)