Controlled temperature chain for vaccination in low- and middle-income countries: a realist evidence synthesis

Seaman, Christopher P., Kahn, Anna Lea, Kristensen, Debra, Steinglass, Robert, Spasenoska, Dijana, Scott, Nick and Morgan, Christopher (2022) Controlled temperature chain for vaccination in low- and middle-income countries: a realist evidence synthesis. Bulletin of the World Health Organization, 100 (8). 491 - 502. ISSN 0042-9686

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Abstract

Objective To evaluate the evidence describing how the controlled temperature chain approach for vaccination could lead to improved equitable immunization coverage in low-and middle-income countries. Methods We created a theory of change construct from the Controlled temperature chain: strategic roadmap for priority vaccines 2017–2020, containing four domains: (i) uptake and demand for the approach; (ii) compliance and safe use of the approach; (iii) programmatic efficiency gains from the approach; and (iv) improved equitable immunization coverage. To verify and improve the theory of change, we applied a realist review method to analyse published descriptions of controlled temperature chain or closely related experiences. Findings We evaluated 34 articles, describing 22 unique controlled temperature chain or closely related experiences across four World Health Organization regions. We identified a strong demand for this approach among service delivery providers; however, generating an equal level of demand among policy-makers requires greater evidence on economic benefits and on vaccination coverage gains, and use case definitions. Consistent evidence supported safety of the approach when integrated into special vaccination programmes. Feasible training and supervision supported providers in complying with protocols. Time-savings were the main evidence for efficiency gains, while cost-saving data were minimal. Improved equitable coverage was reported where vaccine storage beyond the cold chain enabled access to hard-to-reach populations. No evidence indicated an inferior vaccine effectiveness nor increased adverse event rates for vaccines delivered under the approach. Conclusion Synthesized evidence broadly supported the initial theory of change. Addressing evidence gaps on economic benefits and coverage gains may increase future uptake.

Item Type:	Article
Official URL:	https://www.who.int/publications/journals/bulletin
Additional Information:	© 2022 The Authors
Divisions:	Social Policy
Subjects:	R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine
Date Deposited:	18 Aug 2022 10:45
Last Modified:	18 Apr 2024 02:00
URI:	http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/116026

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