The role of National Immunisation Technical Advisory Groups (NITAGs) in strengthening national vaccine decision-making: A comparative case study of Armenia, Ghana, Indonesia, Nigeria, Senegal and Uganda

• DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.07.063
• Publication Date: 2018-07-31T14:15:55Z
• Authors: Natasha Howard; Helen Walls; Sadie Bell; Sandra Mounier-Jack
• Keywords: Advisory Committees; Decision Making; 610; Nigeria; Global Health; Ghana; 630; Article; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Vaccine policy; Humans; Uganda; NITAGs; Vaccines; Immunization Programs; Health Policy; Vaccination; Armenia; Senegal; 3. Good health; Indonesia; Case-Control Studies; Low and middle-income countries

Improving evidence informed decision-making in immunisation is a global health priority and many low middle-income countries have established National Immunisation Technical Advisory Groups (NITAGs) as independent technical advisory bodies for this purpose. NITAG development strengthening has received financial support over the past decade, but relatively little evaluation. This study examined NITAGs six (i.e. Armenia, Ghana, Indonesia, Nigeria, Senegal, Uganda), to examine functionality, quality of recommendation development, integration with national processes.A mixed-method case-series design, used semi-structured interviews, meeting observations, document review. Data were analysed thematically.Five had been legally terms reference appeared well functioning, Ghana's development. All standard operating procedures nomination ensure range expertise, generally comprising 10-15 core, 1-5 secretariat, several ex-officio members. Aside from economics, reported wide member expertise. Newer particular concerns about funding. Four formal conflict interest procedures, although some commented that implications not always understood. valued local data, limited suggested presence might reinforce data production through surveillance research studies. observed meetings demonstrated due process evidence-based processes followed, critical role played by working-group syntheses assessments. seen integrated ministry (MoH) MoH interviewees positive contributions, indicating an important role. Collaboration other was more limited, mitigated members' cross-membership bodies.NITAGs within decision-making. However, their position remains insecure, need sustainable support.