Document analysis is commonly used in health policy analysis (HPA) studies, but the purpose and rigour of application is unclear. This review explored the application and utility of document analysis in HPA studies conducted in low-and-middle income countries (LMICs), intending to derive lessons for strengthening this methodology. Employing a qualitative systematic review approach, nine electronic databases were searched for LMIC HPA articles that employed document analysis. Articles were subjected to systematic retrieval, storage and quality-assessment. Thematic analysis was used in coding, extraction and analysis of data. Only 28 studies had sufficiently detailed document analyses and met the inclusion criteria. Document analyses were mainly complimentary to primary data collection forms. The majority, barring four studies, lacked clear purpose and utility in answering the research questions, and rigour in methodology and the reporting thereof. The approach to document analyses bore no relationship to the policy phase investigated. Challenges in accessing documents contributed to methodological difficulties. Well-executed document analysis has potential to strengthen HPA studies. Health Policy researcher skill in applying this methodology needs strengthening and could be improved by: purposive alignment of the method to research questions; rigorously applying and reporting on search strategy with rigour; source, organize and store documents systematically; apply robust data coding and analysis; and clearly linking document contribution to study findings and conclusions.

Purpose Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a family violence issue requiring public health system interventions. Migrants and refugees experiencing IPV often rely on their Faith-Based Leaders (FBLs). However, the role of FBLs is under-reported. This study aims to report findings on awareness to IPV among FBLs of migrant and refugee backgrounds. Methods This qualitative study engaged 12 FBLs in face-to-face interviews. Thematic analysis revealed three themes namely: Awareness and understanding of IPV; Being the first point of call; Awareness of available services for IPV. Results All FBLs described IPV as relational and identified the different IPV types. Sexual violence did not resonate as IPV by eleven participants. Explanations for being the first point of contact centered around victims’ quest for a win-win outcome and in-accessibility of formal services. Conclusions IPV specific training, collaboration between FBLs and formal services working with victims of IPV is essential in supporting IPV victims.