An Investigation of the Socio-economic Implications of Inadequate Case Management of Non-Communicable Diseases in Lusaka’s Matero Constituency

Abstract

This study investigated the socio-economic implications of inadequate case management of Non Communicable Diseases in Matero Constituency, Lusaka, Zambia. Non-Communicable Diseases such as hypertension and diabetes are increasingly contributing to illness, loss of income, and household economic strain in densely populated urban communities. In Matero, weaknesses in case management including delayed diagnosis, missed clinic appointments, inconsistent medication supply, and limited health worker support continue to undermine effective disease control. Despite the growing burden of these conditions, limited empirical evidence exists on how inadequate case management affects the socio-economic wellbeing of patients and their households in low-income urban settings. This gap necessitated the undertaking of the present study. The study employed a mixed methods sequential explanatory design. A sample of 40 respondents was selected using purposive sampling techniques. Quantitative data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to Non-Communicable Disease patients, while qualitative data were obtained through semi structured interviews with healthcare providers and community health workers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically to provide explanatory depth to the findings. The findings revealed that delayed diagnosis and missed clinic appointments were common and were associated with worsening health outcomes, increased out of pocket healthcare costs, and reduced productivity among patients. Medication shortages and limited health worker support further constrained effective self-management of Non-Communicable Diseases. These challenges imposed significant socio-economic strain on households, particularly among low-income earners. The study concludes that inadequate case management of Non-Communicable Diseases in Matero has serious socio-economic consequences and recommends strengthening follow up systems, improving availability of essential medicines, and enhancing health worker capacity to support long term NCD care. Keywords: Non Communicable Diseases, Case Management, Socio economic Implications, Matero, Lusaka, Zambia