Community-Based Surveillance (CBS) systems help detect and report diseases early in outbreak-prone areas. After the Ebola outbreak, Sierra Leone trained community health workers (CHWs) to monitor 11 key health conditions. A 2019 study found that CBS matched disease reports from health facilities in functional areas, improving early detection. However, challenges like funding … [Read more...] about Feasibility and challenges in sustaining a community based surveillance system in post-Ebola Sierra Leone
Mixed Methods
Perceptions around occupational mental well-being of community health workers and an intervention package for its promotion: A mixed-methods study in rural Chiapas, Mexico
Community health workers (CHWs) in rural Mexico face mental health challenges due to difficult working conditions. In response, an NGO introduced a program in 2021 to support CHW mental well-being. A study involving 52 CHWs found their sense of community impact and peer connections boosted well-being, while work-life balance and uneven access to interventions posed challenges. … [Read more...] about Perceptions around occupational mental well-being of community health workers and an intervention package for its promotion: A mixed-methods study in rural Chiapas, Mexico
NCD prevention and control in Kenya: feasibility study of health kiosks in markets “HEKIMA Study”
The HEKIMA project tested health kiosks in community markets, staffed by community health workers and supervised by nurses, to improve access to cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention in Vihiga County, Kenya. Over six months, 2,224 people, mostly women, used the kiosks for screenings and health promotion. Many had high blood pressure (48%), overweight (32%), or diabetes (12%). … [Read more...] about NCD prevention and control in Kenya: feasibility study of health kiosks in markets “HEKIMA Study”
Communication Channels, Community Engagement and Access to Healthcare Services in Tanzania
This study examined how different communication channels, like mobile phones, community health workers, radio, social media, and village meetings, affect community engagement and healthcare access in Makambako, Tanzania. With data from 503 participants, results showed these channels boost health information sharing and encourage healthier behaviors, making it easier for people … [Read more...] about Communication Channels, Community Engagement and Access to Healthcare Services in Tanzania
Navigating older adults care insights from caregivers and community health workers in Ngestiharjo, Bantul, Yogyakarta
This study explored the knowledge, attitudes, and caregiving practices of older adult caregivers in Ngestiharjo, Indonesia, along with the role of Community Health Workers (CHWs). Most caregivers were women over 50, often lacking knowledge in areas like depression and exercise for seniors. They had moderate confidence in caregiving and were particularly good at maintaining a … [Read more...] about Navigating older adults care insights from caregivers and community health workers in Ngestiharjo, Bantul, Yogyakarta
