Back to Search Start Over

The South African Rea Phela Health Study: A randomized controlled trial of communication retention strategies.

Authors :
Rhyne, James M.
Mumbauer, Alexandra
Rheeder, Paul
Hall, Megan N.
Genkinger, Jeanine
Medina-Marino, Andrew
Source :
PLoS ONE; 5/24/2018, Vol. 13 Issue 5, p1-13, 13p
Publication Year :
2018

Abstract

Epidemiological transitions are occurring throughout Africa. To inform public health programs and policies, longitudinal cohorts investigating non-communicable diseases are needed. However, loss-to-follow up is a major problem. In preparation for a longitudinal study, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to test communication-based retention strategies (message content and delivery methods) among a pilot cohort of South African healthcare workers (n = 1536; median age = 36; women = 1270). Two messaging formats across three delivery modes were tested. Response rates were analyzed by intervention, survey return date and method using chi-square tests and univariate logistic regression. Sixty-seven of 238 (17.4%) control group participants and 238 of 1152 (24.6%) intervention group participants were retained (OR 1.54: CI 1.15–2.07; P = 0.004). Odds of being retained were 1.68 times greater for participants who received regular contact and themed messages compared to control (CI 1.22–2.32; P = 0.001). Neither health status nor clinical condition affected response rates (P>0.05). Time-to-first contact did not impact response rates (P>0.05). Message content and delivery method influenced response rates compared to the control, however no difference was found between intervention groups. Although greater retention is required for valid cohort studies, these findings are the first to quantitatively assess retention factors in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
19326203
Volume :
13
Issue :
5
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
PLoS ONE
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
129759261
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0196900