Table 2

Features of and methods adopted for data collection during the phases of study

Phase of studyFeature of phaseMethod of data collection
Phase 1

  1. Developed eight working theories and a logic model of how SURE-P/MCH is supposed to function.

  2. One of the eight theories sought to explain motivation of PHC workers.

  1. Review of SURE-P/MCH programme handbook.

  2. Literature review of supply and demand sides of community health worker programmes.

  3. Interviews with 48 stakeholders.

    • Health workers (n=13).

    • Facility managers (n=13).

    • Policy-makers* (n=12).

    • Programme managers* (n=10).

  4. Stakeholder workshops with researchers (n=11).

Phase 2Tested and refined health workers motivation theory.

  • Qualitative interviews with eight stakeholders:

    • Health workers (n=5).

    • Facility managers (n=3).

Phase 3

  1. Verified and consolidated motivation theory.

  2. Elaborated the mechanisms of motivation.

  1. Used Herzberg’s two-factor theory and Adam’s equity theory to verify mechanisms of motivation. Reasons for selecting these theories are explained shortly.

  2. Developed CMO configurations using data from phase 2 transcripts outlining how interactions between resources and reasoning operated at micro, meso and macro levels.

  • *Policy-makers and programme managers were interviewed at LGA, state and national levels.

  • CMO, context, mechanism and outcome; LGA, local government area; MCH, maternal and child health; PHC, primary healthcare; SURE-P, Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme.