Authors: Joseph Mumba Zulu, John Kinsman, Charles Michelo and Anna-Karin Hurtig
This paper explores the motivation to become a community health assistant (CHA) in Zambia, the experiences of working in a rural district, and how these experiences affected CHAs’ motivation to work. To examine CHAs’ experiences, data was collected through in-depth interviews with 12 CHAs and observations were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Personal characteristics such as previous experience and knowledge, passion to serve the community and a desire to improve skills motivated people to become CHAs. Health system characteristics such as an inclusive work culture in some health posts motivated CHAs to work. The authors conclude that programs aimed at integrating community-based health workers into health systems should adequately consider multiple incentives, effective management, supervision and support from the district.
Link: Hope and despair: community health assistants’ experiences of working in a rural district in Zambia
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Resource Topic: CHW Role, CHWs and Mental Health, Community Health Workers/Volunteers
Resource Type:
Year: 2014
Region:
Country: Zambia
Publisher May Restrict Access: No