In rural Pakistan, where mental health specialists are scarce, a mobile app-based mental health program called mPareshan was tested with Lady Health Workers (LHWs). The study found that using LHWs to deliver mental health support is feasible, acceptable, and appropriate. Communities trusted LHWs for this role, and their familiarity with smartphones made the program easier to … [Read more...] about A qualitative study assessing acceptability and appropriateness of a technology-assisted mental health intervention by community frontline workers: mPareshan implementation research in rural Pakistan
Qualitative
Professionalisation of Community Health Workers: Time for a Formal Contract
Community health workers (CHWs) are essential for strong primary healthcare but often lack proper support. This study highlights the need for "proCHW" programs, where CHWs are trained, equipped, supervised, paid, and given formal contracts for job security. Formal contracts can ensure fair wages and career growth while protecting CHWs from sudden job loss. Achieving this … [Read more...] about Professionalisation of Community Health Workers: Time for a Formal Contract
Approaches for psychosocial support towards orphans and vulnerable children by community-based workers in the Vhembe district, South Africa
This study explored how community-based workers support orphans and vulnerable children in South Africa's Vhembe district. Focus group discussions revealed that these workers provide various psychosocial interventions, including physical and educational support, psycho-education, social activities, caregiver involvement, and referrals to professionals. However, community-based … [Read more...] about Approaches for psychosocial support towards orphans and vulnerable children by community-based workers in the Vhembe district, South Africa
Lessons Learned From the Use of Human-Centered Design Approaches to Improve Nutrition in Nigeria
Improving children's diets between 6 and 24 months is crucial but has stalled globally. A project in Nigeria used human-centered design and behavior change theory to develop and test tools for better nutrition counseling by community health workers (CHWs) and strategies to improve dietary diversity. Successful prototypes encouraged two-way conversations between CHWs and … [Read more...] about Lessons Learned From the Use of Human-Centered Design Approaches to Improve Nutrition in Nigeria
Health literacy on physical therapy among senior citizens with physical disability and barangay health workers
This study explored the understanding of physical therapy (PT) among senior citizens with disabilities and community health workers (CHWs) in Ilocos Norte, Philippines. It found that most CHWs were women, aged 40–69, with limited education, which could affect their understanding of PT. Senior citizens, mostly with musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis, also had low health … [Read more...] about Health literacy on physical therapy among senior citizens with physical disability and barangay health workers