Shining a light on task-shifting policy: Exploring opportunities for adaptability in non-communicable disease management programmes in Uganda

In terms of disease burden,many low-and middle-income countries are currently experiencing a transition from infectious to chronic diseases. in uganda,non-communicable diseases (ncds) have increased significantly in recent years; this challenge is compounded by the healthcare worker shortage and the underfunded health system administration. addressing the growing prevalence of ncds requires evidence-based policies and strategies to reduce morbidity and mortality rates; however,the integration and evaluation of new policies and processes pose many challenges. task-shifting is the process whereby specific tasks are transferred to health workers with less training and fewer qualifications. successful implementation of a task-shifting policy requires appropriate skill training,clearly defined roles,adequate evaluation,an enhanced training capacity and sufficient health worker incentives. this article focuses on task-shifting policy as a potentially effective strategy to address the growing burden of ncds on the ugandan healthcare system. © 2016,sultan qaboos university. all rights reserved.