Economic Challenges in Tanzanian Healthcare Facilities and Their Impact on PPE Availability During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Analysis

Background: On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic, highlighting the virus's widespread impact across numerous countries. This study evaluated the economic challenges and their impact on the availability of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic in Tanzania. It aimed to explore the challenges faced by healthcare facilities, the effects on PPE distribution, and the adaptive measures implemented in response to shortages. Methods: A qualitative cross-sectional survey was conducted between August 24 and October 3, 2022, in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Dodoma, and Mwanza regions. A total of 96 participants from 24 healthcare facilities were recruited, ensuring equal representation across all four regions. Thematic analysis was applied for data analysis, and interviews were recorded using the Kobo Toolbox. Results: The majority of healthcare professionals indicated that the economic conditions within healthcare facilities were deemed unsatisfactory, whereas only a limited number expressed a differing opinion. When asked about the availability of PPE in their facilities, nearly all expressed dissatisfaction. Most of the respondents indicated a shortage of masks, which were identified as the most commonly utilized PPE for self-protection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: This study underscores the insufficient availability of PPE and the widespread dissatisfaction with the economic conditions within healthcare facilities during the COVID-19 response, as reported by most of the participants. There is a critical need for enhanced financial support from the government to enable healthcare facilities to acquire necessary PPE.