Pilot implementation of community health advocacy teams to improve the eectiveness of long-lasting insecticide net distribution through both campaigns and continuous channels in Ghana: a qualitative study of opportunities and barriers to implementation
Date
2023
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Frontiers in Public Health
Abstract
Introduction: In Ghana, the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP)
distributes long-lasting insecticide net (LLIN) to households for free through the
periodic point mass distribution (PMD) campaign and continuous distribution to
populations most vulnerable to malaria. It is known that the existence of eective
and functional community-based groups could influence positive behaviours
regarding health interventions promoted through health campaigns. However,
there is no evidence of functional community-based groups that aim to improve
the eectiveness of LLIN distribution campaigns by transitioning into primary
healthcare delivery. This study aimed to explore the opportunities and barriers
to the pilot implementation of co-created community health advocacy teams
(CHATs) to improve the eectiveness of LLIN distribution through both campaigns
and continuous channels in Ghana.
Methods: A qualitative research approach was used among 43 CHAT members
across six communities in the Eastern and Volta regions of Ghana. The CHAT
constitutes significant community actors whose roles are centred on key elements
of community/social mobilisation and capacity building, all nested in social
and behaviour change communication (SBCC) strategies. The CHATs were pilot
implemented in all study communities for 4 months after which we identified
opportunities and barriers during implementation. CHAT members participated in
six focus group discussions which were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and
analysed thematically using the NVivo 13.
Results: CHATs were instrumental in sensitising community members through
SBCC strategies. Moreover, there were changes in the behaviour of community members who were receptive towards and participated in CHAT activities.
Community members were accurately informed about malaria (e.g., causes
and preventive measures). However, the CHAT experienced barriers during
implementation, including a lack of financial support to aid in transportation,
organisation of meetings, and outreach activities. Additionally, the level of
participation by CHAT members in activities and the medium of communication
among members were key areas of concern.
Conclusion: The CHATs would be instrumental in promoting LLINs’ use during and
after PMD campaigns through community outreaches. It is therefore necessary
to provide resources to support their operations and a good network to address
communication barriers. Finally, continuous capacity strengthening of CHAT
members by the NMCP is important.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
community health advocacy team, implementation research, intervention, long-lasting insecticide net, malaria, Ghana