Dr. Dickson Mkoka - Qualitative research - Best Researcher Award
Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences - Tanzania
Author Profile
Early Academic Pursuits
Dr. Dickson A. Mkoka commenced his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) in 2003. This foundational education provided him with the knowledge and skills necessary for his subsequent professional endeavors. He furthered his academic pursuits with a Master of Science in Critical Care and Trauma in 2009, specializing in advanced nursing practices crucial for critical care settings. Subsequently, he pursued a Diploma in Complexity and theory-driven inquiry in Health Care Delivery from Umea University, Sweden, in 2013, enriching his understanding of healthcare systems and governance.
Professional Endeavors
Dr. Mkoka's professional journey spans over two decades, marked by significant contributions in nursing education, clinical practice, and research. He began as a Graduate Nursing Officer at the Maternity Unit of Muhimbili National Hospital, where he honed his clinical skills and imparted knowledge to junior staff and students. Progressing through various roles, he transitioned into academia as a Tutorial Assistant at MUHAS, where he contributed to undergraduate nursing education and engaged in research activities.
Contributions and Research Focus On Qualitative research
Dr. Mkoka's research focus lies at the intersection of healthcare governance, maternal health, critical care, and nursing education. He has led and participated in numerous research projects exploring governance perspectives in decentralized maternal healthcare delivery, factors influencing health workers' working conditions, and availability of resources for emergency obstetric care. His commitment to advancing nursing education is evident through his role as a lecturer, supervisor, and coordinator for various nursing programs. Additionally, he has contributed significantly to strengthening critical care and trauma nursing in Tanzania through training initiatives and research endeavors.
Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Mkoka's contributions to nursing education, research, and healthcare governance have garnered recognition both nationally and internationally. He has been invited as a visiting lecturer at prestigious universities in Sweden and Norway, highlighting the value of his expertise in global healthcare contexts. His research publications in peer-reviewed journals underscore his scholarly achievements and impact in advancing nursing and healthcare practices.
Impact and Influence
Dr. Mkoka's leadership roles, research endeavors, and teaching activities have left a profound impact on nursing education, healthcare policy, and clinical practice in Tanzania and beyond. His collaborative efforts with national and international partners have contributed to strengthening healthcare systems, improving maternal and critical care services, and enhancing nursing competencies. Through his mentorship and supervision, he has inspired numerous nursing students and professionals to pursue excellence in their careers.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Dr. Mkoka's legacy as a trailblazer in nursing education and research is characterized by his unwavering dedication to improving healthcare outcomes and promoting evidence-based practices. As he continues to serve in leadership positions, mentor aspiring nurses, and conduct impactful research, his contributions will shape the future of nursing education, policy, and practice in Tanzania and globally. His commitment to addressing healthcare challenges and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations underscores his enduring legacy in the field of nursing and beyond.
Notable Publication
- Traffic police officers' use of first aid skills at work: A qualitative content analysis of focus group discussions in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania Ndile, M.L., Saveman, B.-I., Lukumay, G.G., ...Outwater, A.H., Backteman-Erlanson, S. BMC Emergency MedicineThis link is disabled., 2020
- Nielsen, E.A.M. Tarimo, S.M. Kibusi, D.A Mkoka, et al., How do Tanzanian nursing students experience an elective exchange programme. A qualitative study, Nurse Education Today (2020).
- Kashaija DK, Mselle TM & Mkoka DA (2020). Husbands’ experience and perception of supporting their wives during childbirth in Tanzania. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth
- Lukumay GG, Outwater AH, Mkoka DA, Ndile ML & Saveman B (2019): Traffic police officers’ experience of post-crash care to road traffic injury victims: a qualitative study in Tanzania. BMC Emergency Medicine 19:51 https://doi.org/10.1186/s12873-019-0274-x
- Gift G. Lukumay, Menti L. Ndile, Anne H. Outwater, Dickson A. Mkoka, Mojgan Padyab, Britt-Inger Saveman and Susann Backteman-Erlanson: Provision of post-crash first aid by traffic police in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: a cross sectional survey. BMC Emergency Medicine in November 2018:18:45 https://doi.org/10.1186/s12873-018-0199