Title: Misperceptions and Misconceptions: The Barriers to Prescribing Oral Rehydration Solution for Diarrhea in Children in India
Introduction
Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) has been identified as a lifesaving treatment for diarrhea in children. However, a study published in the Science Journal in February 2024 reveals that ORS is underprescribed in India for children suffering from diarrhea due to misperceptions and misconceptions among healthcare providers. The study, titled ‘What drives poor quality of care for child diarrhea? Experimental evidence from India,’ was conducted across 253 medium-sized towns in Karnataka and Bihar.
Misperception: A Major Barrier
The study found that misperceptions among healthcare providers accounted for 42% of the underprescription of ORS. These misperceptions stemmed from the providers’ confusion about whether patients preferred non-ORS treatments like antibiotics, the taste of ORS, and its perception as not real medicine. However, a household survey conducted by the researchers revealed that most patients preferred ORS, contradicting the providers’ beliefs.
The study also found that when standardized patients expressed their preference for ORS, the prescription increased by 27 percentage points. This highlights the significance of patients expressing their preferences at the point of care.
Financial Incentives and ORS Stock
While financial incentives and ORS stock were perceived as barriers to prescribing ORS, the study found that eliminating these incentives had no effect on ORS prescription. However, half of the providers who were randomly assigned to receive a six-week supply of ORS showed a 7 percentage points increase in ORS provision. Additionally, clinics that sell medicine instead of prescribing it showed a 17 percentage points increase in ORS provision.
Recommendations
The researchers suggest sharing the results of the study with all stakeholders, encouraging patients to express their preferences at the point of care, and ensuring ORS stock at healthcare facilities to alleviate the underprescription of ORS.
Conclusion
The misperceptions and misconceptions of healthcare providers are significant barriers to the underprescription of ORS for diarrhea in children in India. By addressing these barriers, we can ensure that ORS is prescribed appropriately, saving the lives of countless children. It is crucial to share the study’s findings with all stakeholders and encourage patients to express their preferences at the point of care, leading to improved healthcare outcomes for children.