Analysis of rural health centres preparedness for the management of diabetic patients in Malawi

OBJECTIVE: There is limited data on the quality of primary care management for diabetes mellitus across Africa. The study was aimed at assessing the availability of basic supplies for the rapid diagnosis, treatment and management of diabetes in Malawian rural health facilities. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 55 public and private health centers from 19 districts using a structured questionnaire and checklist to interview the pharmacy personnel or officer in-charge of the health centers. We focused on availability of information, diagnosis and treatment materials for diabetes. RESULTS: Of the 55 health facilities surveyed, 21, 23 and 11 were located in the central, southern and northern regions of Malawi, respectively. Overall, 38% (21/55) of the health centres had glucometers, while 24% (13/55) had urine glucose dipsticks. Only 4% (2/55) of the health centres had recommended first-line medicines for treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. No health centre had diabetes patient records and information, education and communication materials. Most rural health centers in Malawi lack basic health commodities for the screening, diagnosis and treatment of diabetes and this impedes on their effective management of growing diabetes burden. Therefore, health care systems need to adequately equip primary care facilities. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (10.1186/s13104-018-3369-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.