Facilitators and barriers of Community Case management of Malaria implementation in Homabay, Busia and Kakamega Counties, Kenya

Authors: Sheila Lumumba, Albino Luciani, Bryson Sifuma, Dennis Kinyua, George Gikunda, Norah Ogutu, John Onyango, Diana Mukami, Colleta Kiilu, Saida Kassim, Yvonne Opanga, George Githuka

This study looked at how community health volunteers (CHVs) help fight malaria by diagnosing and treating it within communities. Researchers surveyed 528 households and held discussions and interviews to understand what helps or hinders this work. They found that most households had received malaria services and were satisfied with CHV care. Successful efforts included community education, CHV training, and use of rapid malaria tests. However, challenges like myths about mosquito nets, shortages of testing kits and medicines, and poor road access made the work harder. The study suggests ongoing training, steady supplies, and support for CHVs are key to improving malaria care.