scholarly journals “They have been neglected for a long time”: a qualitative study on the role and recognition of rural health motivators in the Shiselweni region, Eswatini

2020 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Caroline Walker ◽  
Doris Burtscher ◽  
John Myeni ◽  
Bernhard Kerschberger ◽  
Bernadette Schausberger ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Rural Communities ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Rural Health ◽  
Health Workers ◽  
Influencing Factor ◽  
Limiting Factors ◽  
Positive Health ◽  
Community Stakeholders ◽  
Public Health Challenges

Abstract Background Community health workers (CHWs) are increasingly engaged to address human resource shortages and fill primary healthcare gaps. In Eswatini, a cadre of CHWs called Rural Health Motivators (RHM) was introduced in 1976 to respond to key public health challenges. However, the emergence of health needs, particularly HIV/TB, has been met with inadequate programme amendments, and the role of RHMs has become marginalised following the addition of other CHWs supported by non-governmental organisations. This study was implemented to understand the role of RHMs in decentralised HIV/TB activities. In this paper, we explore the findings in relation to the recognition of RHMs and the programme. Methods This exploratory qualitative study utilised individual in-depth interviews, group and focus group discussions, participatory methods (utilising a game format) and observations. Participants were purposively selected and comprised RHM programme implementers, community stakeholders and local and non-governmental personnel. Data collection took place between August and September 2019. Interviews were conducted in English or siSwati and transcribed. SiSwati interviews were translated directly into English. All interviews were audio-recorded, manually coded and thematically analysed. Data was validated through methodical triangulation. Results Suboptimal organisational structure and support, primarily insufficient training and supervision for activities were factors identified through interviews and observation activities. Significant confusion of the RHM role was observed, with community expectations beyond formally endorsed tasks. Community participants expressed dissatisfaction with receiving health information only, preferring physical assistance in the form of goods. Additionally, gender emerged as a significant influencing factor on the acceptability of health messages and the engagement of RHMs with community members. Expectations and structurally limiting factors shape the extent to which RHMs are recognised as integral to the health system, at all social and organisational levels. Conclusions Findings highlight the lack of recognition of RHMs and the programme at both community and national levels. This, along with historical neglect, has hindered the capacity of RHMs to successfully contribute to positive health outcomes for rural communities. Renewed attention and support mechanisms for this cadre are needed. Clarification of the RHM role in line with current health challenges and clearer role parameters is essential.

scholarly journals “They have been neglected for a long time”: a qualitative study on the role and recognition of Rural Health Motivators in the Shiselweni region, Eswatini

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Caroline Walker ◽  
Doris Burtscher ◽  
John Myeni ◽  
Bernhard Kerschberger ◽  
Bernadette Schausberger ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Rural Communities ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Rural Health ◽  
Health Workers ◽  
Influencing Factor ◽  
National Level ◽  
Limiting Factors ◽  
Positive Health ◽  
Public Health Challenges

Abstract Background: Community health workers (CHWs) are increasingly engaged to address human resource shortages and fill primary healthcare gaps. In Eswatini, a cadre of CHWs called Rural Health Motivators (RHM) was introduced in 1976 to respond to key public health challenges. However, the emergence of health needs, particularly HIV/TB, has been met with inadequate programme amendments; and the role of RHMs has become marginalised following the addition of other CHWs supported by non-governmental organisations. This study was implemented to understand the role of RHMs in decentralised HIV/TB activities. In this paper, we explore the findings in relation to the recognition of RHMs and the programme. Methods:This exploratory qualitative study utilised individual in-depth interviews, group and focus group discussions, participatory methods (utilising a game format) and observations. Participants were purposively selected and comprised RHM programme implementers, community stakeholders, and local and non-governmental personnel. Data collection took place between August and September 2019. Interviews were conducted in English or siSwati and transcribed. SiSwati interviews were translated directly into English. All interviews were audio recorded, manually coded and thematically analysed. Data was validated through methodical triangulation. Results: Suboptimal organisational structure and support, primarily insufficient training and supervision for activities were factors identified through interviews and observation activities. Significant confusion of the RHM role was observed, with community expectations beyond formally endorsed tasks. Community participants expressed dissatisfaction with receiving health information only, preferring physical assistance in the form of goods. Additionally, gender emerged as a significant influencing factor on the acceptability of health messages and the engagement of RHMs with community members. Expectations and structurally limiting factors shape the extent to which RHMs are recognised as integral to the health system, at all social and organisational levels. Conclusions: Findings highlight the lack of recognition of RHMs and the programme at both community and national level. This, along with historical neglect, has hindered the capacity of RHMs to successfully contribute to positive health outcomes for rural communities. Renewed attention and support mechanisms for this cadre are needed. Clarification of the RHM role in line with current health challenges and clearer role parameters is essential.

scholarly journals “They have been neglected for a long time”: a qualitative study on the role and recognition of Rural Health Motivators in the Shiselweni region, Eswatini

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Caroline Walker ◽  
Doris Burtscher ◽  
John Myeni ◽  
Bernhard Kerschberger ◽  
Bernadette Schausberger ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Rural Communities ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Rural Health ◽  
Health Workers ◽  
Influencing Factor ◽  
National Level ◽  
Limiting Factors ◽  
Positive Health ◽  
Public Health Challenges

Abstract Background: Community health workers (CHWs) are increasingly engaged to address human resource shortages and fill primary healthcare gaps. In Eswatini, a cadre of CHWs called Rural Health Motivators (RHM) was introduced in 1976 to respond to key public health challenges. However, the emergence of health needs, particularly HIV/TB, has been met with inadequate programme amendments; and the role of RHMs has become marginalised following the addition of other CHWs supported by non-governmental organisations. This study was implemented to understand the role of RHMs in decentralised HIV/TB activities. In this paper, we explore the findings in relation to the recognition of RHMs and the programme. Methods : This exploratory qualitative study utilised individual in-depth interviews, group and focus group discussions, participatory methods (utilising a game format) and observations. Participants were purposively selected and comprised RHM programme implementers, community stakeholders, and local and non-governmental personnel. Data collection took place between August and September 2019. Interviews were conducted in English or siSwati and transcribed. SiSwati interviews were translated directly into English. All interviews were audio recorded, manually coded and thematically analysed. Data was validated through methodical triangulation. Results: Suboptimal organisational structure and support, primarily insufficient training and supervision for activities were factors identified through interviews and observation activities. Significant confusion of the RHM role was observed, with community expectations beyond formally endorsed tasks. Community participants expressed dissatisfaction with receiving health information only, preferring physical assistance in the form of goods. Additionally, gender emerged as a significant influencing factor on the acceptability of health messages and the engagement of RHMs with community members. Expectations and structurally limiting factors shape the extent to which RHMs are recognised as integral to the health system, at all social and organisational levels. Conclusions: Findings highlight the lack of recognition of RHMs and the programme at both community and national level. This, along with historical neglect, has hindered the capacity of RHMs to successfully contribute to positive health outcomes for rural communities. Renewed attention and support mechanisms for this cadre are needed. Clarification of the RHM role in line with current health challenges and clearer role parameters is essential.

scholarly journals Why do health workers give anti-malarials to patients with negative rapid test results? A qualitative study at rural health facilities in western Uganda

2016 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Robin Altaras ◽  
Anthony Nuwa ◽  
Bosco Agaba ◽  
Elizabeth Streat ◽  
James K. Tibenderana ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Rural Health ◽  
Health Workers ◽  
Rapid Test ◽  
Health Facilities ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Western Uganda

scholarly journals Obstacles for Iranian rural population to participate in health education programmes: a qualitative study

2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. e000020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yousef Hamidzadeh ◽  
Mina Hashemiparast ◽  
Hadi Hassankhani ◽  
Hamid Allahverdipour
Keyword(s):  
Health Education ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Rural Health ◽  
Health Information ◽  
Information Seeking ◽  
Health Workers ◽  
Local Health ◽  
Community Based Education ◽  
Rural Settings ◽  
Data Saturation

ObjectiveTo explore the obstacles of community participation in rural health education programmes from the viewpoints of Iranian rural inhabitants.DesignThis was a qualitative study with conventional content analysis approach which was carried out March to October 2016.SettingData collected using semistructured interviews that were digitally recorded, transcribed and analysed until data saturation. MAXQDA 10 software was used to manage the textual data.ParticipantParticipants were twenty-two seven clients from a rural community in Ardabil, Iran who were receiving health services from health centres.ResultThe main obstacles to participate in health education programmes in rural settings were ‘Lack of trust to the rural health workers’, ‘Adherence to neighbourhood social networks in seeking health information’ and ‘Lack of understanding on the importance of health education’.ConclusionRural health education programmes in Iran are encountered with a variety of obstacles. We need to enhancing mutual trust between the rural health workers and villagers, and developing community-based education programmes to promote health information seeking behaviours among villagers. The finding of this study will be a referential evidence for the qualitative improvement of local health education programmes for rural inhabitants.

scholarly journals Community acceptance, satisfaction, and support for case management of malaria of various degrees in selected rural communities in Ibadan, Oyo-State

2021 ◽  
Vol 55 (3) ◽  
pp. 198-205
Author(s):  
IkeOluwapo O. Ajayi ◽  
Ayodele S. Jegede ◽  
Akintayo O. Ogunwale ◽  
Janet Ogundairo ◽  
Oladipupo S. Olaleye ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Rural Communities ◽  
Case Management ◽  
Health Workers ◽  
Artemisinin Combination Therapy ◽  
Positive Health ◽  
Under Five ◽  
Under Five Children ◽  
Management Intervention ◽  
Case Management Intervention ◽  
The Government

Objectives: This study aimed to assess communities’ perception and adoption of the evidenced-based malaria diagnosis and case management intervention targeted at under-five children. The effectiveness of trained Volunteer Community Health Workers (VCHWs) to diagnose malaria among under-five children using rapid diagnostic testing kit, provide treatment using Artemisinin Combination Therapy and rectal Artesunate were assessed.Design: A qualitative evaluation study was conducted in October 2015.Setting: Communities in the 6 rural wards in Ona-Ara Local Government Area, Oyo State Nigeria.Participants: Caregivers of under-five children, community–based frontline health workers, and community leaders selected using purposively sampling.Methods: Nine Focus Group Discussions and 15 Key Informant Interviews were conducted using a pre-tested guide. Data were subjected to thematic analysis.Results: It was disclosed that VCHWs promoted people’s access to prompt and appropriate malaria treatment. The communities accepted the VCHWs; the reasons given for this included the following: effectiveness of VCHWs in case management of malaria; good inter-personal relationship with caregivers; and the positive health outcomes associated with services provided by them. In addition, community members expressed satisfaction with the VCHWs and provided them with all the support needed to function throughout the malaria case management intervention. The VCHWs considered the support as a great source of encouragement.Conclusions: The use of VCHWs to treat malaria was adjudged to be effective and considered acceptable to the communities. The adoption of the intervention and its integration into the primary health system by the government is advocated for in medically underserved rural communities.

scholarly journals Insights for rural health care provider retention : a quantitative survey analysis

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
Maria Kuhns
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Rural Communities ◽  
Rural Health ◽  
Health Care Provider ◽  
Health Care Providers ◽  
Care Provider ◽  
Rural Health Care ◽  
Care Providers ◽  
The Impact

Due to rural health disparities and an uneven distribution of health providers across the rural urban continuum, retaining the existing rural health care provider workforce may be an important strategy to maintain existing rural health care provision. While a large body of literature addresses how to recruit health care providers to rural areas, less is known about how to retain these providers. Even less literature has focused on the role of rural communities in health care provider retention. In this thesis, I examine the role of provider background and familial characteristics, workplace characteristics, and community characteristics that may impact a provider's likelihood to consider leaving a rural community. I use data from a survey of over 900 rural health care providers across nine states and a probit model to estimate the impact of these characteristics on a provider's propensity to consider leaving. I find that establishing social ties and integrating within the community through volunteering reduces providers' likelihood to consider leaving by 10 percent. Additionally, providers who engage in entrepreneurship by investing in part or all of their practice are 12 percent less likely to consider leaving, all else being equal. I also find that having unacceptable on-call responsibilities increases a provider's likelihood to consider leaving by 17 percent. This thesis contributes to the existing literature by estimating the effects of work-life balance, entrepreneurship, and the role of family and personal integration on provider retention. Furthermore, it emphasizes the role of communities in provider retention. These results offer insights to rural communities and decision-makers seeking to identify how to maintain their existing rural health care workforce.

The Role of Community Development in Slum Electrification Efforts in Ashaiman, Ghana

2020 ◽  
Vol 3 (2) ◽  
pp. 203-215
Author(s):  
Jamal Appiah-Kubi ◽  
Emmanuel Owusu Amoako
Keyword(s):  
Rural Communities ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Community Development ◽  
Ethnic Diversity ◽  
Limited Access ◽  
Governmental Organizations ◽  
Non Governmental Organizations ◽  
Informal Communities

Upon its introduction into slums in Ghana as a result of its contribution to development in rural communities, community development has been adopted to provide some basic amenities such as houses and toilet facilities in such informal communities. With limited access to electricity being a major problem in Ashaiman slums, various stakeholders such as the Electricity Company of Ghana and non-governmental organizations have employed community development mechanisms to assist the inhabitants in electrification projects in Ashaiman slums. This qualitative study was conducted to investigate how community development has fared in the electrification efforts, focusing on the contributions it has made and the challenges encountered. The practice has improved the dialogue and relationship between the communities and officials of the Electricity Company of Ghana and led to the electrification of some neighbourhoods. However, slum electrification efforts have been impeded by tribal differences among the inhabitants due to the high ethnic diversity, and lack of resources. It is therefore important that leaders of the tribes work towards uniting their subjects for their participation in electrification efforts.

scholarly journals Job Satisfaction Analysis in Rural China: A Qualitative Study of Doctors in a Township Hospital

Scientifica ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 2017 ◽  
pp. 1-6 ◽  
Author(s):  
Qiwei Chen ◽  
Lan Yang ◽  
Qiming Feng ◽  
Scott S. Tighe
Keyword(s):  
Job Satisfaction ◽  
Rural Communities ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Health Care Services ◽  
Health Workers ◽  
Rural China ◽  
Work Conditions ◽  
Township Hospital ◽  
The Government ◽  
Township Hospitals

Background. Township hospitals in China provide rural communities with basic but much needed critical health care services. The doctors working in these hospitals often feel unsatisfied when considering their work schedules and financial rewards. Method. To explore job satisfaction of health workers in a township hospital, a qualitative study was conducted of 39 doctors from five township hospitals in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The goal was to understand the level of job satisfaction of doctors and to make recommendations for improvements. Results. About 75% (28/39) of the doctors expressed negative attitudes related to their work conditions. Slightly more than half (22/39) mentioned they should receive greater compensation for their work and more than one were seriously considering other options. Many participants (35/39) showed their satisfaction about the achievement of serving as a doctor. Conclusion. Their main concerns related to job satisfaction included working conditions, financial rewards, and the doctor’s relationships with patients. Increasing the incomes and fringe benefits of healthcare workers, improving their work conditions, and providing training and continuing education opportunities would help rural clinics retain doctors and eliminate the current unsatisfactory conditions. The findings also highlight the need for the government to increase financial support of township hospitals.

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