Implementation Research on the Effectiveness of Care Group Model in Improving Knowledge and Practices of MCHN Services by Community Mothers in India

Abstract

Background & objectives: Knowledge and practices of Maternal and child health (MCH) services is vital for improved health and nutrition among children and mothers. This study has used implementation research on the “Care Group Model” a behaviour change communication approach to assess the knowledge and child health care practices of mothers. Methods: The study was conducted in the districts of Odisha which is in the eastern state of India. This study has used a cluster sampling technique to collect the data of the Care Group intervention of the first 1000 days during pregnancy and thereafter among mothers/caregivers of children up to 2 years. This study has followed a mixed-method approach using both quantitative and qualitative data from study population. Results: Implementation of care group model in the four blocks had a great impact on the knowledge, attitude, and practices of mothers or caretakers of young children on the various aspects of maternal and child health. Mothers in the intervention area were found to be better at managing diarrhoea, i.e., they had better knowledge of giving more fluids, solid food and ORS during diarrhoeal episode. Interpretation & conclusion: This study concludes that the care group is more effective in the intervention areas by improving children’s health and massive behavioural changes that happened in the mother’s pregnancy care. Expanding the intervention of care group models in other areas of RMNCHA could be a policy suggestion. Key words: Care Group Model; Implementation Research; Maternal and Child health; Nutrition; Odisha.