Understanding quackery and develop governance framework
Description
This dataset contains qualitative and thematic research data collected as part of a comprehensive study for PhD research purposes. The main objective of the study was to explore quackery practices, induction pathways, provider roles, and facilities in its growth and the barriers to its control in Pakistan. The dataset includes the raw data downloaded from the taguette after uploading anonymized interview transcripts from a diverse group of stakeholders, including health policy experts, public health professionals, qualified healthcare providers, regulatory officials, and community members. The data provides insights into major areas: 1. Knowledge gaps related to public understanding of healthcare and quackery 2. Types of quacks and the range of quackery practices operating in the region 3. Sources and mechanisms of new induction into quackery including informal apprenticeship pathways and patient demand factors 4. The involvement of qualified healthcare providers in promoting or enabling quackery practices 5. Facilitators in the growth of quackery 6. Barriers to control it This dataset supports the development of an evidence based governance framework aimed at curbing quackery in low and middle income country settings. All interviews have been fully anonymized to ensure participant confidentiality and comply with ethical standards. The dataset is suitable for secondary analysis by researchers working in public health governance regulatory policy or health systems strengthening.
Files
Steps to reproduce
In this study, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore quackery and associated factors, guided by Bandura’s Reciprocal Determinism model and informed by a preceding scoping review. The interviews involved key healthcare stakeholders, including health policy experts, public health professionals, regulators, legitimate and illegitimate providers, and patients/citizens, across urban and rural areas of Sindh and selected regulatory authorities outside the province. Participants were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling using organizational websites, LinkedIn, personal networks, and social media, ensuring a diverse representation of perspectives. A sampling matrix was developed covering multiple domains such as regulators, practitioners, anti-quackery officers, quacks, and patients. Recruitment faced challenges including non-responsiveness, cultural constraints, and social barriers, particularly among women from conservative areas. All interviews were conducted face-to-face, and relevant national and international documents were also analyzed to complement the qualitative data.
Institutions
- Institute of Business Management