Collaborations between local health authorities and community leaders in responding to health emergencies in low- and-middle-income countries: a scoping review protocol.

Abstract

Background: Effective collaboration between local health authorities and community leaders is critical for timely and inclusive responses to health emergencies in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, evidence on how these partnerships function, their effectiveness, and associated challenges remains scattered. This scoping review aims to map existing research on such collaborations to identify strategies, best practices, and gaps.

Methods: This scoping review will be conducted using the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework. A systematic search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and relevant grey literature sources, will be performed, covering publications from inception to 2025 without restrictions on language or publication date. The inclusion criteria will focus on studies that explore collaboration strategies, their effectiveness, challenges, and outcomes in the context of health emergencies in LMICs. Two independent reviewers will screen studies, and extract data, with any discrepancies resolved by a third reviewer. The findings will be synthesised narratively, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews guideline.

Discussion: This scoping review will offer a comprehensive overview of the current literature on collaborations between local health authorities and community leaders during health emergencies in LMICs. The review will identify effective strategies, common challenges, and successful practices, as well as highlight areas where further research is needed. The insights gained from this review will inform policymakers, practitioners, and researchers aiming to strengthen community-based responses to health emergencies. The findings will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal, presentations at relevant conferences, and discussions with key stakeholders to support improved collaborations and response strategies in LMICs.