Evaluation of community health worker training course effectiveness in India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15566/cjgh.v3i2.142Keywords:
community health worker, training, rural, spiritual, faith-based organisationAbstract
Community health workers (CHWs) have long played a key role in delivering healthcare in rural and remote populations, through primary care, prevention and education. Numerous mechanisms of training and supporting CHWs have been implemented, and the WHO has outlined recommendations for the programmatic and financial aspects of CHW programs. This study evaluated the outcomes of a CHW training program in India whereby community development workers from faith-based organisations have been trained since 2011 to extend health prevention, promotion, education and basic services to rural, remote and poor communities across the country. Triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data and course information was conducted, and analysis pointed to the effectiveness of the trainees in their respective work locations. Outcomes were noted in the areas of first aid and primary care, health promotion and education, the breadth of beneficiaries, and spiritual health. The consistency of the data across these areas suggests that the training course is effective in its delivery, its contribution to the expansion of healthcare coverage and its potential for impact across India.References
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