Andrew is a PhD student from Uganda under the SHIP research group in the School of Health and Life Sciences (SHLS). His research interests lie along strengthening health systems in developing countries. He holds a BSc (first class) in Food Science and Technology from Makerere University in Uganda, Master of Science (distinction) in Public Health from Bournemouth University in the UK and a Postgraduate Diploma (first class) in Monitoring and Evaluation from the Uganda Technology and Management University in Uganda.
He has over 3 years’ professional experience in implementing and monitoring & evaluating public health programs in developing countries (Bangladesh and Uganda) with particular focus on improving maternal and child health.
PhD Title: An international perspective on the barriers and facilitators for the implementation of infection prevention and control guidance
Research Topic Area: As countries continue to face the challenges of healthcare associated infections (HAIs), antimicrobial resistance, and outbreaks, effective infection prevention and control, informed by best practices, is of paramount importance (Allegranzi et al., 2011; Andersson and Hughes, 2010). In response to this, WHO in 2009 released the first guidelines on core components for national infection prevention and control programmes. These guidelines were revised based on a systematic review of evidence in 2016 to include strategies for both the prevention of healthcare associated infections and control of the spread of infections within healthcare facilities both of which, if implemented successfully, could contribute to a decrease in healthcare-associated infections leading to reduced antimicrobial demands and a positive impact on morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs worldwide (WHO, 2016). An Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) programme, implemented within a healthcare facility, is critical not only to prevent HAIs but also to prepare for and respond to communicable diseases crises (WHO, 2016).
There is still lack of evidence from low income settings and thus, it is important to find out the potential barriers and facilitators to implementing these guidelines particularly in resource constrained settings.
Supervisors: 1. Dr. Lesley Price (Director of Studies), 2. Dr. Caroline King (2nd Supervisor), 3. Prof. Jacqui S. Reilly (3rd Supervisor)