title: Shining a Light on Task-Shifting Policy: Exploring opportunities for adaptability in non-communicable disease management programmes in Uganda.
abstract: In terms of disease burden, many low- and middle-income countries are currently experiencing a transition from infectious to chronic diseases. In Uganda, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have increased significantly in recent years; this challenge is compounded by the healthcare worker shortage and the underfunded health system administration. Addressing the growing prevalence of NCDs requires evidence-based policies and strategies to reduce morbidity and mortality rates; however, the integration and evaluation of new policies and processes pose many challenges. Task-shifting is the process whereby specific tasks are transferred to health workers with less training and fewer qualifications. Successful implementation of a task-shifting policy requires appropriate skill training, clearly defined roles, adequate evaluation, an enhanced training capacity and sufficient health worker incentives. This article focuses on task-shifting policy as a potentially effective strategy to address the growing burden of NCDs on the Ugandan healthcare system.
authors.affiliation: Department of Adult Health & Critical Care, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman;
authors.forename: Godfrey
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Katende
authors.affiliation: Department of Acute & Chronic Care, School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
authors.forename: Mary
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Donnelly
keywords: Community Health Planning; Delivery of Health Care; Health Workforce; Physician Shortage Area; Uganda