Impacts of community lay-leader health worker training and practice (Uttarakhand, India)

Abstract

This study investigated the impacts of the Community Lay-Leaders Health Training Certificate course on trainees and their communities in the state of Uttarakhand, North India. A suite of semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were conducted among course stakeholders and graduates, respectively, and textual data was added to the data set. Thematic analysis of the results revealed four themes, including: (1) the effectiveness of course design and delivery, together with the key role of the coordinating facilitator; (2) the match between graduates' practices, the providing institution's objectives and general expectations of community health workers; (3) the strengthening of the health system through skills multiplication, collaboration with existing authorities, and advocacy for higher quality in professional practice; and (4) the need for ongoing support and training post-graduation. The findings are consistent with literature concerning community health workers' roles and challenges, although some potentially unique outcomes were noted with respect to the pastoral support provided to trainees and the pro-active transfer of graduates' knowledge and skills to fellow villagers.

Percepções de profissionais sobre o agente comunitário de Saúde no cuidado ao idoso dependente

“…Like India, CHWs establish a link between community leaders and those of religious organizations for health care performance, favoring access for underserved and remote communities across the country to primary care. In this perspective, this action provides changes in health-related behavior, with repercussions on the expansion of health care for these populations, as well as the positive impact on health across India 30 .…”