scholarly journals Stakeholder perspectives on proposed policies to improve distribution and retention of doctors in rural areas of Uttar Pradesh, India

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Veena Sriram ◽  
Shreya Hariyani ◽  
Ummekulsoom Lalani ◽  
Ravi Teja Buddhiraju ◽  
Pooja Pandey ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Policy Development ◽  
Stakeholder Analysis ◽  
Uttar Pradesh ◽  
Policy Adoption ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
The Government ◽  
Stakeholder Power

Abstract Background In India, the distribution and retention of biomedical doctors in public sector facilities in rural areas is an obstacle to improving access to health services. The Government of Uttar Pradesh is developing a comprehensive, ten-year Human Resources for Health (HRH) strategy, which includes policies to address rural distribution and retention of government doctors in Uttar Pradesh (UP). We undertook a stakeholder analysis to understand stakeholder positions on particular policies within the strategy, and to examine how stakeholder power and interests would shape the development and implementation of these proposed policies. This paper focuses on the results of the stakeholder analysis pertaining to rural distribution and retention of doctors in the government sector in UP. Our objectives are to 1) analyze stakeholder power in influencing the adoption of policies; 2) compare and analyze stakeholder positions on specific policies, including their perspectives on the conditions for successful policy adoption and implementation; and 3) explore the challenges with developing and implementing a coordinated, ‘bundled’ approach to strengthening rural distribution and retention of doctors. Methods We utilized three forms of data collection for this study – document review, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. We conducted 17 interviews and three focus group discussions with key stakeholders between September and November 2019. Results We found that the adoption of a coordinated policy approach for rural retention and distribution of doctors is negatively impacted by governance challenges and fragmentation within and beyond the health sector. Respondents also noted that the opposition to certain policies by health worker associations created challenges for comprehensive policy development. Finally, respondents believed that even in the event of policy adoption, implementation remained severely hampered by several factors, including weak mechanisms of accountability and perceived corruption at local, district and state level. Conclusion Building on the findings of this analysis, we propose several strategies for addressing the challenges in improving access to government doctors in rural areas of UP, including additional policies that address key concerns raised by stakeholders, and improved mechanisms for coordination, accountability and transparency.

scholarly journals IMPLEMENTASI KEBIJAKAN PEMBANGUNAN PERUMAHAN BAGI MASYARAKAT BERPENGHASILAN RENDAH DI RUSUNAWA KELURAHAN DUSUN BESAR KECAMATAN SINGARAN PATI KOTA BENGKULU

2015 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anita Marianata
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Development Policy ◽  
Policy Development ◽  
Housing Development ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
The Government ◽  
Depth Interviews

This study aims to determine the implementation of housing development policy for low income communities in Kelurahan Dusun Besar, Singaranpati Subdistrict, Bengkulu City. This study uses a qualitative desciptive method and the data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and documentation method. The results shows that the implementation of Rusunawa (simple rented flats) policy development in Kelurahan Dusun Besar has not been appropriate with expectation. The physical condition of Rusunawa is not habitable, because the construction of Rusunawa has not finished or neglected until now. From the 96 residence in total, only 23 units were inhabited. The Rusunawa management also did not collect the rent, due the condition of facilities in Rusunawa was not adequate such as unavailable water supply. Besides, the Rusunawa management recognized that there was no authority resignation directly from the government of Bengkulu City to the management, so that the managers did not know exactly when these flats will be resolved or the rent expense will be charged. Moreover, there was no program to improve the economy of low-income communities, so the empowerment of low- income communities living in Rusunawa was impossible. Keywords: Implementation of Policy, Housing Policy, Socio-Economics, Low-Income Communities

scholarly journals Women Who Study in Madrasah School Experienced Higher Number of Female Circumcision Compared to Western or English Schools

2016 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Salmah Lao Manalocon- Basher
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Qualitative Methods ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Prevalence Rate ◽  
Female Circumcision ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Experiences Of Women ◽  
Quantitative And Qualitative Methods ◽  
External Genital Organs

Female circumcision refers to the procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female external genital organs. The reasons for doing this vary but it is commonly observed in places where Muslims predominate. The study is intended to determine: 1) the rate of females who had undergone female circumcision in Madrasah School compared to those who went to English schools, 2) the prevalence rate of female circumcision among Meranaos, and 3) the practices and experiences of women who have undergone FC. The study utilized a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods using a designed questionnaire, interview and focus group discussions with the respondents. The results showed that more girls who were studying in Madrasah have undergone this practice compared to the number of girls who are in Western or English schools. It also showed that the prevalence rate of this practice is indeed high in the rural areas, which is 86%. The practice of FC is performed either during Fridays, Holidays or Mondays and Thursdays. Each mentioned day has meanings and there are certain procedures and instructions being followed in doing the practice. In conclusion, religious justification remains the strong reason why FC is still rampantly performed in the different rural areas of Lanao del Sur, Philippines.

scholarly journals Exploring the Preparedness of Ghanaians for Retirement and Ageing: A Case Study of the Cape Coast Metropolitan Area

2018 ◽  
Vol 6 (5) ◽  
Author(s):  
Irene Korkoi Aboh ◽  
Busisiwe P. Ncama
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Older People ◽  
Old Age ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Elderly Persons ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Cape Coast ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Traditional System ◽  
The Family

Introduction: There is evidence of the inability of older people in Nigeria, Ghana and other developing countries to sustain themselves through savings, assets or pensions. This situation highlights the minimal benefit of pensions, savings or assets as income sources for older people; old age very often brings poverty and disability. Methodology: A qualitative interpretive design informed the study. The study area was categorized into three distinct ecological areas namely urban, periurban and rural areas. Twenty interviews and three focus group discussions with 68 elderly persons were conducted in ten sub-districts in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. The forty-eight elderly individuals were put into groups of 8, 20 and 20 for the focus group discussions. Data was thematically analysed.Results: Four major themes and subthemes were identified to reflect the pertinent issue of exploring and defining the preparedness of people for their retirement and ageing. There was evidence that preparing for old age is not an active precedent for the people of Cape Coast and they still believe in the traditional system of caring where it is the sole responsibility of the family to care for its own aged members.Conclusion: It is evident that formal care is not practiced in Ghana and that the aged therefore find the idea bewildering. They want to experience this care, but existing norms expect the family members to single-handedly provide care for their aged.

Exploring the experience and challenges of maternity waiting homes in Jimma, southwest Ethiopia

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Woubishet Girma ◽  
Dessalegn Tamiru ◽  
Mirkuzie Woldie ◽  
Ayantu Kebede ◽  
Zewdie Birhanu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Healthcare Providers ◽  
Computer Software ◽  
Obstetric Care ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Transportation Services ◽  
Care Access ◽  
Maternity Waiting Homes

Background Establishing maternity waiting homes is a key strategy to address the geographic barrier to obstetric care access among women living in rural areas. In Ethiopia, maternity waiting homes have been in use for several years, with a sharp increase in the number of such facilities recently. However, there is little empirical evidence detailing the experiences and challenges faced by women during the implementation of this initiative in Ethiopia. Methods This study used a multiple case study design with qualitative data collection methods, and was conducted from October to November 2016. Data were collected using focus group discussions, in-depth interviews and direct observation of each maternity waiting home. All interviews and focus group discussions were recorded using a digital voice recorder. Data were transcribed and translated into English. The coding process and formation of thematic structure was assisted by Atlas ti7.5 computer software. Results The participants reported that they were satisfied and comfortable with the services at the maternity waiting homes, as were their husbands and community leaders. Facility, social and environmental challenges were identified as common barriers to the utilisation of maternity waiting homes by stakeholders at different levels. Healthcare providers reported common challenges at maternity waiting homes include a lack of basic utilities (water and electric supply), and overcrowding because of a shortage of space and lack of medical supplies. Some women reported that poor transportation services and the distance to facilities hindered the utilisation of maternity waiting homes. Conclusions There are social and facility challenges related to the use of maternity waiting homes in Ethiopia. Policymakers and health managers should work with relevant sectors to mitigate the effect of facility, social and environmental barriers and maximise the use of maternity waiting homes.

Experiences of Slovak University students with on campus alcohol policy

Human Affairs ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 22 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ferdinand Salonna ◽  
Natália Vendelová ◽  
Jozef Benka ◽  
Mária Bačíková
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
University Students ◽  
Policy Development ◽  
Qualitative Approach ◽  
Alcohol Policy ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Alcohol Policies ◽  
The Us ◽  
Key Questions

AbstractThe vast majority of studies focusing on alcohol consumption among university students are based on US and Canadian samples and employ a quantitative approach. Universities from the US and Canada also have a longer tradition in implementing alcohol policies. The alcohol policies at universities in Slovakia are mostly non-systematic and often not implemented in practice. The objective of this study was to explore Slovak university students’ experiences towards alcohol policy on their campuses using a qualitative approach. Eight focus group discussions were conducted among university students (n=64; 38 female; 2011; Slovakia). The key questions were (1) “Is there a policy concerning alcohol on your campus and what are the consequences of not complying with it?”, and (2) “How should an on-campus alcohol policy be developed and what should it include?” The students knew of few, if any, rules concerning alcohol. Student participation was considered important in policy development and implementation. Slovak universities should be more active in forming alcohol policies. A preventative policy which actively involves students was emphasized as optimal.

scholarly journals An investigation into respiratory health problems of workers at stone crushing industries in Bangladesh

2018 ◽  
Vol 32 (2) ◽  
pp. 172-178
Author(s):  
Ehtesham Kabir ◽  
Aminul Islam ◽  
Md. Taufikuzzaman
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Cigarette Smoking ◽  
Respiratory Health ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Significant Relation ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Respiratory Problems ◽  
The Government

Purpose Occupational exposure to dust is a major health and safety concern for workers in developing countries. Such laborers are often exposed to dust without being aware of its threat to their health. In the process of crushing stone, mineralogical materials are released into the environment. The material includes dust, fumes, ashes or other industrial waste which may constitute toxic elements. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the respiratory health problems of stone crushing industry workers in Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach This cross-sectional descriptive research study was conducted by adopting a multi-method approach. Data were collected by use of a questionnaire survey, focus group discussions, in-depth interview and spirometric examinations. Focus group discussions and questionnaire surveys were conducted among 240 workers. The respondents were divided in six groups for the spirometric examination. The questionnaire was formulated by following standards set by the American Thoracic Society Division of Lung Disease questionnaire and European Coal and Steel Community. Data on respondent’s height, weight and smoking habits were collected by using a structured checklist. Meanwhile, lung functions were assessed by spirometry. A Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used to analyze the data. Findings The results show that there was a significant relation between respiratory problems and inhalation of dust and particulate matter and cigarette smoking. It also shows that coughing was the most common problem among the respondents. The majority of respondents suffered from obstructive types of respiratory problems. Originality/value Findings of the study reveals that chronic exposure to dust at stone crushing plants increases the risk of respiratory problems and the impaired lung function of workers. It also reveals that there is a significant relation between respiratory problems and inhalation of dusts and cigarette smoking. Raising awareness about health risks amongst workers could reduce these health hazards. The government should make a national policy for the prevention, control and elimination of silica exposure and silicosis. The results would help to raise awareness of the issue. Finally, it would raise awareness on respiratory health problems of workers at stone crushing industries in Bangladesh and help the government to make a policy for the prevention, control and elimination of silica exposure and silicosis, and thus enhancing public health policy and practices in the country.

scholarly journals Social and cultural factors perpetuating early marriage in rural Gambia: an exploratory mixed methods study

F1000Research ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 8 ◽  
pp. 1949
Author(s):  
Mat Lowe ◽  
Mamsamba Joof ◽  
Bomar Mendez Rojas
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
The Gambia ◽  
Early Marriage ◽  
Rural Settlements ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Key Informant

Background: Over the last two decades, early marriage in the Gambia declined significantly (from 58% to 30%), however this rate is still high. The reasons for the decline but continuing practice of early marriage, despite existing legislation prohibiting child marriage, are not very well understood. Very few studies have been conducted to find out what and how local factors influence decisions about early marriage in the Gambia. More information is therefore needed on underlying reasons for the persistence of early marriage in the Gambia so that program managers can use this information to design strategies to decrease early marriages. Methods: The study was conducted in 24 rural settlements in Lower Baddibu District in the North Bank Region of the Gambia. It was based on a mixed-methods design including a cross-sectional household survey with a sample of 181 female adolescents, focus group discussions with 16 male and female parents, and eight key informant interviews with community-based decision makers. Focus group discussions and key informant interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic content analysis, while survey data were analyzed using Stata. Results: The study finds that ethnicity and the fear that girls may engage in premarital sex are two important factors associated with early marriage in rural Gambia. In addition, lack of meaningful alternatives to marriage including work opportunities in rural areas may also limit the options and resources available to girls, resulting in early wedlock. Conclusions: These findings suggest that in order to decrease early marriages in rural Gambia, future efforts should focus on understanding and addressing the role of ethnicity in determining marriage patterns and allaying the fear around premarital sex.The findings also suggest a need to provide girls with employment-oriented education including vocational skills which may result into more empowerment and a delay in marriage.

Consumption and Distribution of Iodized Salt in Subamia Village Tabanan District 2014

2016 ◽  
pp. 143
Author(s):  
Manik Ulan Dewi ◽  
K. Tresna Adhi ◽  
Dyah Pradnyaparamita Duarsa
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Distribution Patterns ◽  
Iodized Salt ◽  
Community Leaders ◽  
Iodine Deficiency Disorders ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
The Government ◽  
Salt Distribution

Background and purpose: Consumption of iodized salt is essential to prevent iodine deficiency disorders. One of the key success of iodized salt program is distribution. This study explored the consumption and logistical distribution patterns of iodized salt among housewives in Subamia Village Tabanan District.Methods: The study was a qualitative with data collection using two focus group discussions (FGD) of 6 active and 6 inactive cadres. Indepth interviews were conducted with two health staffs, two community leaders, one staff of Trade/Industrial Office at Tabanan District and one salt seller. Data was analysed using thematic method.Results: Respondents prefered uniodized salt because of several reasons including less bitter, tastier and cheaper than iodized salt. Moreover, the distribution of iodized salt regulated by the government was reported to be impeded the salt distribution, this resulted in the difficulty of villagers to access the iodized saltConclusion: Appetizing flavor, access and no local regulations on distribution of iodized salt is the cause of low consumption of iodized salt in Subamia Village Tabanan District.

scholarly journals Lives of persons with disabilities in Cameroon after CRPD: voices of persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality in Cameroon

2017 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 67-75 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maxwell Peprah Opoku ◽  
Wisdom Kwadwo Mprah ◽  
Judith Mckenzie ◽  
Bernard Nsaidzedze Sakah ◽  
Eric Badu
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Visually Impaired ◽  
Qualitative Method ◽  
Life Experiences ◽  
Equal Rights ◽  
Economic Activities ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Persons With Disabilities ◽  
The Government

Abstract Introduction: The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) has been touted as a major breakthrough towards achieving equal rights for persons with disabilities. The promulgation of the convention provided clear guidelines for signatory countries to revise their legislation as well as to formulate policies that will take into consideration the needs of persons with disabilities. As Cameroon is a signatory to the convention, it is expected that disability-friendly policies have been implemented to enhance the living conditions of persons with disabilities. This study examined, from the perspectives of participants, the life experiences of persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality 7 years after Cameroon signed the CRPD. Methods: The study adopted a qualitative method, involving focus-group discussions with 36 participants from three disability groups: hearing impaired, visually impaired, and physically impaired. Findings: The study found that persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality faced many challenges in their daily endeavors. These challenges are a result of a lack of inclusive policies, leading to their exclusion from social and economic activities such as education, employment, and healthcare. Conclusion: Although the study is limited in scope, the findings suggest that persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality were yet to benefit from the CRPD. It is, therefore, suggested that the government of Cameroon should formulate inclusive policies to address the numerous challenges facing persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality.

scholarly journals Application of ICT tools in communicating information and knowledge to artisanal fishermen communities in Zanzibar

2017 ◽  
pp. 239-253
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Sample Size ◽  
Mobile Phones ◽  
Weather Condition ◽  
Network Connectivity ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Fishing Gears ◽  
Ict Tools ◽  
The Government

This article assesses the application of ICT tools in communicating information and knowledge to artisanal fishermen communities in Zanzibar. The study was carried out in four purposefully selected wards in Unguja District in Zanzibar, Tanzania. The study involved a sample size of 80 respondents. Data were collected by using document reviews, questionnaires, focus group discussions and personal observations. Results showed that artisanal fishermen need information and knowledge on weather condition, modern fish capturing methods, market and marketing, fish preservation and processing. The study also found that mobile phones and radio are the most ICTs tools used by the artisanal fishermen. The findings also revealed that communicating information and knowledge through ICT tools was limited by lack of funds, poor network connectivity, lack of training and seminars on the use of ICTs in accessing information and poor coverage on radio and television transmission. It is therefore recommended that the government should support artisanal fishermen in acquiring some of the fishing gears and ICTs tools such as GPS and sonar through subsidizing them.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document