India’s ASHA program has improved access to healthcare in rural areas, but many people still reject medical advice. This study asked ASHAs and their clients why. The main reasons were lack of understanding about health benefits and family or social pressures. However, ASHAs mostly tried to persuade people by giving more health information, rarely addressing social influences. … [Read more...] about Community health workers’ counseling is based on a deficit model of behavior change
India
Factors associated with Anganwadi Workers’ service delivery of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in rural India: A cross-sectional analysis of household and community health worker surveys
This study looked at the work of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) in Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, India, who provide nutrition and health services to mothers and children. It found that while many families received food and growth monitoring, fewer got home visits or counseling. Factors like training, resources, supervision, motivation, and timely pay greatly influenced how well AWWs … [Read more...] about Factors associated with Anganwadi Workers’ service delivery of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in rural India: A cross-sectional analysis of household and community health worker surveys
Challenges in data documentation and retrieval in the ASHA diary from a usability perspective
This study examined how well ASHA workers in India use their diaries, which are vital for recording patient information and supporting healthcare in underserved communities. Involving 57 ASHA workers, the research found that many face challenges such as poor readability, confusing layouts, and difficulty finding information. These problems make documentation and data use … [Read more...] about Challenges in data documentation and retrieval in the ASHA diary from a usability perspective
Impact of a training program for community health officers on neurological disorders: insights from the Karnataka brain health initiative
This study tested a training program to help Community Health Officers (CHOs) in rural Karnataka manage common brain and nerve disorders like headache, epilepsy, stroke, and dementia. Nearly 300 CHOs took part in a two-hour session led by neurologists. Their knowledge scores rose sharply after training, showing clear improvement regardless of prior experience. Participants were … [Read more...] about Impact of a training program for community health officers on neurological disorders: insights from the Karnataka brain health initiative
Maternal health education and social support needs across the perinatal continuum of care: a thematic analysis of interviews with postpartum women in Punjab, India
This study explored the support and education first-time mothers in Punjab, India, received during pregnancy, childbirth, and after delivery. While women got the most help during pregnancy, there were major gaps in knowledge and support during childbirth and postpartum, especially after cesarean deliveries. Many relied on advice from health workers and family, but this guidance … [Read more...] about Maternal health education and social support needs across the perinatal continuum of care: a thematic analysis of interviews with postpartum women in Punjab, India