Background: Existing chronic care conceptual models were not designed for sub-Saharan Africa, where there is a growing burden of chronic disease. This review provides a qualitative synthesis and new conceptual model for primary care approaches to the integration of chronic communicable and non-communicable disease care in a sub-Saharan African context.
Methods: A best fit framework synthesis comprising two systematic reviews, with information retrieved from PubMed, Embase, CINAHL plus, Global Health, and Global Index Medicus databases between 1st and 30th April 2020. Articles on chronic care conceptual models were included if they were developed for application in a primary care context and described a framework for long-term management of chronic disease care, and themes extracted to construct an a priori framework. A second systematic review included articles focussing on integrated HIV and diabetes care at a primary care level in sub-Saharan Africa, with thematic analysis carried out against the a priori framework. A new conceptual model was constructed from a priori themes and new themes. Risk of bias of included studies was assessed using CASP and MMAT.
Results: Two conceptual models of chronic disease care, comprising 6 themes, were used to build the a priori framework. The systematic review of primary research identified 12 articles, with all 6 of the a priori framework themes, and 5 new themes identified. A new patient-centred conceptual model for integrated HIV and diabetes care was constructed, specific to a sub-Saharan African context.
Discussion: Improving patient access to chronic disease care through implementing decentralised, integrated, affordable and efficient primary care services should be prioritised in sub-Saharan Africa. Services must be acceptable to patients, viewing them as partners, addressing their concerns, and seeking to safeguard confidentiality. Limitations of this study include potential publication bias, and impact of policy environment and economic factors in sub-Saharan Africa.