Challenges In Delivery And Performance Of A Cervical Cancer Prevention Program In The Kurdistan Region Of The Iraq Health System

Objective To investigate health-system challenges responsible for the poor performance of a cervical cancer prevention program in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Method A qualitative study was conducted among a purposive sample of healthcare providers and female volunteers in Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, between December 10, 2014, and July 23, 2016. Data were collected from participants using in-depth semi-structured interviews. The interviews were then transcribed and analyzed with an inductive content analysis approach. Results In total, 23 individuals completed the interviews. The participants included 8 (35%) female volunteers; 5 (22%) nurses; 4 (17%) managers; 3 (13%) doctors; and 3 (13%) gynecologists. The health-system challenges were classified into three main categories: existence of an official reminder system, public information delivery programs, and infrastructures of facilities, which included three subcategories-cervical cancer screening center, material resources, and human resources. Conclusions The Kurdistan Region of Iraq health system faced several challenges in delivering a cervical cancer prevention program. These challenges must be addressed to improve the coverage of cervical cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.