Asia

Peer-led community HIV/syphilis testing with linkage within seven days for MSM and transgender women in Indonesia: a mixed-methods process evaluation

This study tested a peer-led community program in Indonesia that offered HIV and syphilis testing to men who have sex with men and transgender women. Trained community health workers provided testing through outreach visits, community posts, and mobile events. Most participants accepted the service, and many were testing for the first time. All individuals who tested positive … [Read more...] about Peer-led community HIV/syphilis testing with linkage within seven days for MSM and transgender women in Indonesia: a mixed-methods process evaluation

This study tested a smartphone-based mental health program designed to reduce stress and burnout among community health workers in rural India. Forty women health workers used a digital version of a WHO self-help program over 12 weeks. Their stress levels decreased, and most found the app helpful and easy to use, though some had minor difficulties navigating it. Participants … [Read more...] about A digital adaptation of the WHO’s Self-Help Plus psychological intervention to alleviate stress among community health workers: a mixed-methods evaluation of the SAMBHAV program in rural India

This project worked with community health workers to help women in Indian slums get care for urinary tract infections. The workers educated women, identified those with symptoms, and helped them get tested and treated at local clinics. Many women who might not have sought care because of stigma were reached. The study shows that trusted community workers can help women get … [Read more...] about ASHAs as Agents of Change: Tackling the Burden of UTIs and Fostering Antibiotic Stewardship in Underserved Communities of India

A study followed the use of UpToDate, a clinical decision tool, by community health workers (CHWs) in rural and remote areas over three years. While CHWs liked the tool, actual use was low and declined over time, affected by power outages, heavy workloads, and limited device access. CHWs mainly used it for learning and building professional credibility rather than at the point … [Read more...] about Adoption of an Electronic Decision Support Tool for Capacity Building of Community Health Workers: Mixed Methods Study

This study in rural Thailand assessed health literacy (HL) among 840 Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) after COVID-19. Most VHVs had adequate (65.5%) or excellent (29.4%) HL. Higher HL was linked to positive attitudes, strong motivation, and over 10 years of experience, while higher household income was associated with lower HL. The findings suggest training and support should … [Read more...] about Exploring health literacy and demographic determinants among village health volunteers in the post-COVID-19 era: a web-based cross-sectional study