Title:
Perceptions and Experiences of Qualitative Data Use in Humanitarian Contexts: A Case Study of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders)
Authors:
Susante, Hilde van
Place:
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Publisher:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute [etc.]
Year:
2022
PAGE:
39
Language:
En
Subject:
Health and Poverty
Keywords:
qualitative data use; humanitarian context; complex health emergencies; Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)
Abstract:
Literature shows that qualitative data can be useful in complex health emergencies, however it is not often used. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is a big player in this field and has a mission to apply a more ‘people-centred approach’ in their mission. Aims: Map the perceptions in MSF on qualitative data use in humanitarian settings and identify the barriers, enablers and needs to develop recommendations to increase qualitative data use in complex health emergencies in MSF. Methods: Rapid qualitative appraisal design, all data obtained from semi structured interviews and observations were summarised in a RREAL sheet and analysed using a framework analysis approach. Results: Qualitative data are seen as subjective and descriptive and are used for needs assessments, evaluations and understanding the context of the community, however most participants had limited qualitative experience and knowledge. The main barriers described: lack of time, skills, knowledge and understanding the value. Main enabler described: the global/ MSF trend towards qualitative data with 'the people centred approach'. There was a need for training of MSF workers and a need to change the top to more value the qualitative approach. Conclusion and recommendation: MSF workers perceive the use qualitative data in humanitarian settings as more subjective. They found these data useful, however, there is a limited use, knowledge and skills in the organisation. I recommend setting up a training on how to do rapid qualitative assessments and set up an intersectional workgroup to support MSF workers from the top in their work on qualitative assessments.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute , VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Country:
The Netherlands
Region:
Northwestern Europe
Training:
Master of Science in International Health
Category:
Research
Right:
@ 2022 Susante
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
3NpwzQmzTd_20230509155015548.pdf