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Dissertations, Theses and Plan B Papers -- Abstract

Brown, Margaret Irene. The Feasibility of Transferring an Animal Health Monitoring System from the United States to Honduras. Master's Thesis, 1990. Major Professor: Lloyd. 

This research attempts to determine H a low-income country such as Honduras, would benefit from an improved animal health monitoring system, and identify critical factors for successful implementation of such a system. Michigan's National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) offers a possible information model to provide epidemiological and economic information for Honduran decision makers.

NAHMS' performance was evaluated to assess how well it gathers required information in Michigan. Primary weaknesses identified were lack of data on feed costs and weight gains and insufficient laboratory diagnosis.

Honduran institutions and information needs were assessed to determine if NAHMS' epidemiological and economic concepts would be applicable to Honduras. Honduran officials and donor agencies favor improved information. Government agencies have sufficiently qualified staff but would require strengthened coordination and analytical skills to fully benefit from new information systems. Political considerations and funding availability will ultimately determine if all or part of NAHMS is transferred to Honduras.