The Research Division of the Public Health Institute of Malawi is in the process of assessing the capacity of its Health Facility Research Coordinating Committees country wide. The team above visited Nsanje District Hospital to appreciate the efforts the committee is making and the challenges they are encountering. This initiative involves the implementation of a comprehensive supervision checklist designed to standardize and streamline the oversight processes of these committees.
Dr. Chitsa Banda, Deputy Director for Research Department – PHIM led the supervision checklist exercise. She said “We are confident that this tool will not only improve the quality of oversight but also enhance the overall impact of health research in districts in Malawi”.
The supervision checklist is a tool developed to ensure that health facility research coordination committees adhere to best practices and maintain high standards in their operations. It covers various aspects of committee functions, including meeting procedures, documentation, compliance with ethical standards, and the implementation of research protocols.
By providing a clear framework for supervision, the checklist aims to: enhance compliance, improve documentation, strengthen coordination, and boost efficiency during operations to reduce delays and improve the overall efficiency of research oversight.
The Research Department remains committed to supporting health facility research coordination committees and to fostering a culture of excellence in health research across the country. This initiative underscores the department’s dedication to advancing health research and ultimately improving health outcomes for the people of Malawi.
