Sustainability: CHW productivity will be determined in large part by the conditions under which they work. Attention to the provision of an enabling work environment for CHWs will be essential for achieving high levels of productivity.
Our model of operation encompasses four essential elements like, workload, supportive supervision/mentorship, supplies and equipment, and respect from the community and the health system, this has greatly improved their productivity. Our project principle, is that if CHWs have a manageable workload in terms of a realistic number of tasks and clients, an organized manner of carrying out these tasks, a reasonable geographic distance to cover, the needed supplies/ equipment, a supportive supervisor, and respect and acceptance from the community and the health system, they can function more productively and contribute to an effective community-based strategy.
Conclusions: As more countries look to scale up CHW programmes or shift additional tasks to CHWs, it is critical to pay attention to the elements that affect CHW productivity during programme design as well as implementation. An enabling work environment is crucial to maximize CHW productivity. Policy-makers, programme managers, and other stakeholders need to carefully consider how the productivity elements related to the work environment are defined and incorporated in the overall CHW strategy. Establishing a balance among the four elements that constitute a CHW’s work environment will help make great strides in improving the effectiveness and quality of the services provided by CHWs.
Muhereza Chrisestome
Community Health Worker Manager,based in Karamoja-Uganda. Qualification: Medical Clinical officer,Social Worker and Public Health and Leadership Specialist. Community Health Worker Program Manager,
UNOPS-MILLENIUM PROMISE ALLIANCE +256783156896.