Abstract On Health Communication Practice In Africa - Using Drama As a Medium for Health Information Dissemination- the Nigerian Experience

Background: The realisation of the knowledge gap that exists on basic health issues in our communities are alarming, amongst the educated and uneducated. This is displayed during patient consultations and general interactions.  Much as radio has been a preferred medium for information dissemination due to its wide reach, we know impactful knowledge in health leans much on visuals. The consequences of acts of ignorance displayed by some Nigerian families are further complicated by challenges of effective and efficient healthcare delivery in Nigeria. However, growing urbanisation in Nigeria with an increase in urban slums has created greater demand for comprehensible information on health

Program background: Our experience while on a HIV and AIDS awareness program embarked on with the National Agency for the Control of AIDS lend credence to use of creative drama in the lingual flavour of the target audience for effective communication. Most health programs in Nigeria are usually packaged as documentaries, with interview sessions involving health practitioners using medical jargons that turn off the audience. A short drama is presented on the disease in focus subtly showcasing predisposing factors, etiology, disease presentation and social implications of the disease. Afterwards, specialists in the field presented are interviewed. Our guests answers questions using simple words and illustrations that average high school graduates can understand. This model has been used to present health issues such as HIV/AIDS, Malaria, Sickle cell Anaemia, Cataracts, Obstructed labour.  After every presentation, we project telephone numbers that the audience may call for help. We ensure response within 24 hours of receiving the feedbacks and pro-bono services are offered by the specialists and health professional groups. The process of production commences with a pre-production meeting.  Then, a script conference where there are discussions around each topic in order to guide the script writers, usually not medically trained individuals. The scripts are reviewed by the team subsequently and agreed upon.  A detailed production plan is developed with timelines and shared with various stakeholders.

Evaluation Methods and Results: As a result of the simplified style of drama presentation, the crowd’s response during the question and answer sessions is always inspiring. This is evidenced by the mix of those that ask questions in terms of age, sex, occupation and educational status. Furthermore, the quality and depth of questions asked show that information was passed across to.  One major outcome of these dramas is the recent support for the project by a major Television Station, Africa Independent Television. AIT currently airs the program weekly.

Challenges

• Challenges of funding - rental of production equipment and airing on Television and drama production are cost intensive
• As a result of the weak health system in Nigeria, it is sometimes difficult to access good quality care and support.

Conclusions:  The use of drama as a medium of health communication is very effective in passing key messages to the populace in Nigeria.

Implications for research and/or practice: It also provides good quality material when moving from stage plays to television production as television is yet a largely untapped resource for public health advocacy.