New approaches to monitoring public health interventions in resource limited settings: Mobile phone technology in the Tanzania neglected tropical diseases control program

Monitoring and evaluating the impact of public health interventions in resource limited settings is challenging. Programs have relied on the existing healthcare system to provide them with data but health systems are often over stretched with the high burden of disease and limited resources to meet monitoring and evaluation needs. The Tanzania NTD control program addresses five NTDs primarily through mass drug administration (MDA). In 2012, over 25 million treatments were provided to 15 million persons at risk. In order to improve the speed and accuracy of collecting data, the program has employed the use of mobile phones. These phones can run open source software that provides numeric, text and GPS data capture. Collected data is stored in the phone memory or uploaded to a server via wifi or mobile networks. With over 96% mobile phone network coverage, the program has successfully used mobile technology in baseline, transmission assessment and coverage surveys. The use has increased efficiency by providing real time data collection and reduced program costs. Collaborative efforts between the MOH and partners have contributed to the successful roll-out of this technology for the NTD Program. In a resource limited setting, the use of mobile phone technology is a good alternative to a paper based system. Although the initial investment in resources can be significant, the Tanzania case has shown the benefits. Access to reliable and readily available data allow for better planning and use of resources in the long term