To describe the lessons learnt during the promotion of a new approach to the care of critically ill patients in TanzaniaEssential Emergency and Critical Care (EECC).

A descriptive qualitative study using thematic analysis of structured interviews.

The study was conducted in Tanzania, involving 11 policymakers, researchers and senior clinicians who participated in the promotion of EECC in the country.

Five inter-related themes emerged from the promotion of EECC in Tanzania: (1) early and close collaboration with the government and stakeholders; (2) conduct research and use evidence; (3) prioritise advocacy and address misconceptions about EECC; (4) leverage events and embed activities in other health system interventions; and (5) employ a multifaceted implementation strategy. The themes map to the normalisation process theory domains of coherence, cognitive participation, collective action and reflexive monitoring.

The integration of EECC into Tanzania’s health policy is a result of a multidisciplinary collaboration including government and partners that has used evidence, advocacy and context and included multifaceted implementation strategies. The lessons from Tanzania’s experience provide guidance for adoption in similar settings to improve critical care systems, foster access to care and optimal outcomes for all critically ill patients.