This study looked at whether community health workers (CHWs) in six African countries are providing the nutrition services outlined in national policies. Interviews with 735 CHWs and a review of policy documents showed gaps between what CHWs are supposed to do and what they actually deliver. While most CHWs provided child-focused services like Vitamin A, deworming, and … [Read more...] about Assessing the gap between policy and practice: community health workers’ contributions to nutrition services in Sub-Saharan Africa
Effectiveness of a community health worker-led education intervention on knowledge, attitude, and antenatal care attendance among pregnant women in Eastern Uganda
This study tested whether training Village Health Teams (VHTs) in Eastern Uganda to give tailored education to pregnant women could improve maternal health outcomes. Over six months, VHTs visited women at home to provide guidance. After the program, women showed much better knowledge about maternal and child health, more positive attitudes toward antenatal care, and a big … [Read more...] about Effectiveness of a community health worker-led education intervention on knowledge, attitude, and antenatal care attendance among pregnant women in Eastern Uganda
Context and reasons of preference for use of traditional birth attendant care in Indonesia and Ethiopia
This study looked at why many families in Indonesia and Ethiopia still prefer Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) despite efforts to promote hospital births. Interviews and group discussions with mothers, TBAs, community health workers, men, and community leaders showed that people value TBAs because they are close by, trusted, and provide culturally familiar support. The … [Read more...] about Context and reasons of preference for use of traditional birth attendant care in Indonesia and Ethiopia
Community health volunteer support for regular blood pressure monitoring in Indonesia spatial regression models
This study explored how community health volunteers (CHVs) in Indonesia influence regular blood pressure checks, which are key to managing hypertension. Using national survey data, researchers found that people were more likely to monitor their blood pressure when CHVs rated their traits (using a likert scale) as kind, considerate, and helpful, especially in parts of Sumatra. … [Read more...] about Community health volunteer support for regular blood pressure monitoring in Indonesia spatial regression models
Exploring community health workers’ perspectives on recommending influenza vaccination to older adults: a phenomenological study
This study looked at how community health workers (CHWs) in Shanghai encourage older adults to get the flu vaccine. While most were willing to recommend the vaccine, many were cautious and focused on avoiding blame or harming their reputation. Their actions were shaped by personal beliefs, community expectations, their own skills, and lessons from COVID-19. The study suggests … [Read more...] about Exploring community health workers’ perspectives on recommending influenza vaccination to older adults: a phenomenological study