The Quality of Cleft Care Servies at A Tertiary Cleft Care Center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Date
2024-10
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Background: Comprehensive cleft care is needed for a child born with orofacial cleft. Reconstructive surgery addresses problems associated with feeding and aesthetic concerns; however, without a comprehensive treatment, functional problems such as speech challenges, dental concerns, hearing, and psychosocial problems may persist for life.
Objective: Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College is currently the only government hospital in Ethiopia offering comprehensive cleft care through a multidisciplinary team. The present study aimed to explore the quality of care provided at the hospital's cleft care center.
Method: A qualitative study approach was used with a case study design to explore the perspectives of plastic surgeons and speech and language therapists who are working in the hospital's multidisciplinary team. Insights from parents receiving treatment for their child at the hospital were also included in the study.
Result: The findings of this research indicate that Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College provides comprehensive cleft care services, adhering to the recommended timeframe for initial assessment, and surgical, and speech therapy interventions. However, parents reported delays in primary lip surgery due to weight eligibility criteria not being met. Major challenges identified at the hospital were limited resources and hospital capacity, shortage of professionals mainly speech therapists and nutritionists, disorganized documentation, and language barriers.
Conclusion: The hospital's multidisciplinary team's dedication to providing comprehensive care, supported by charitable organizations, is commendable. In the future, addressing these challenges will be essential for improving the overall quality of cleft care at the hospital.
Recommendations: Key suggestions outlined for the hospital include providing essential diagnostic tools, recruiting more professionals, increasing hospital capacity, and enhancing local support groups.