Multidimensional Barriers to Routine Health Data Use for Decision-making: A Mixed-Methods Study in Haryana, India
Rupinder Sahota, Arindam DasAbstract
Background:
Routine health information usage is essential for evidence-based decision-making at peripheral health facilities in India, where Medical Officers-in-Charge (MO ICs) implement health programs and policies. Since the use of data for local decision-making remains limited, investigating organizational, individual and technical barriers through both implementation and policy perspectives is needed to strengthen data-use practices.
Aim:
To assess barriers influencing the use of routine health data for programmatic decision-making at peripheral public health facilities.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted in Haryana, India. Quantitative data were collected through structured interviews with 120 MO ICs across six selected districts and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with seven state program officers and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings were triangulated to generate a comprehensive understanding of barriers to data use.
Results:
Barriers to data use were multidimensional and interlinked, with individual and technical barriers emerging as more prominent than organizational barriers. Individual barriers like limited analytical skills, competing administrative responsibilities, and low motivation reduced engagement with routine data. Technical challenges included fragmented reporting platforms, duplication of data entry, and large volumes of information that complicated interpretation despite the availability and confidence in data quality. Organizational processes included limited clarity on performance indicators, emphasis on reporting compliance, and inconsistent feedback mechanisms. Individual capacity gaps, technical system complexity, and organizational practices mutually reinforced each other, limiting effective data-driven decision-making.
Conclusion:
Strengthening routine data use requires integrated interventions addressing workforce capacity, simplified and interoperable information systems, and supportive organizational environments that promote data use for decision-making.