Neonatal deaths remain a major concern in South Africa, with nearly half linked to prematurity. The Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) program supports very low birth weight (VLBW) babies through community health worker visits. This study examined VLBW infants discharged from a regional hospital, their follow-up care, health outcomes, and caregiver experiences. Among 169 … [Read more...] about Community-based follow-up of very low birth weight neonates discharged from a regional hospital in Cape Town: a descriptive study
South Africa
Brief Report: Preferences and Acceptability in Methods of Tenofovir Diphosphate in Dried Blood Spots Collection and Feedback in a Cohort of PLWH in Cape Town South Africa
Monitoring HIV treatment adherence using dried blood spots (DBS) is highly acceptable among people living with HIV in South Africa. In a study of 224 participants, 99% supported DBS testing, and 96% found it helpful. Most preferred clinic staff to collect samples (79.5%), while fewer were comfortable with community health workers (26.1%) or pharmacists (37.0%). Over half (52%) … [Read more...] about Brief Report: Preferences and Acceptability in Methods of Tenofovir Diphosphate in Dried Blood Spots Collection and Feedback in a Cohort of PLWH in Cape Town South Africa
Assessing the physical activity training needs and preferences of community health workers in South Africa
This study explored the interest of South African community health promoters (CHPs) in promoting physical activity (PA). Most CHPs saw PA as important for health and part of their job, though few knew the correct PA guidelines. Nearly all wanted more training to improve their skills and apply it in their work. Focus groups highlighted the need for ongoing training, structured … [Read more...] about Assessing the physical activity training needs and preferences of community health workers in South Africa
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
You go an extra mile a qualitative study of community health worker perspectives in a health promotion intervention in urban South Africa
This study explored the experiences of community health workers (CHWs) delivering the Bukhali health promotion program in Soweto, South Africa. CHWs shared similar challenges with participants, including managing multiple roles like health education, support, and referrals, often going beyond their official duties. They emphasized the importance of building trust with … [Read more...] about You go an extra mile a qualitative study of community health worker perspectives in a health promotion intervention in urban South Africa