Community satisfaction with village health teams’ mobilization activities for HIV and anti-natal care intervention in Masaka district

Abstract

Introduction: In recent times of global health workers‘ shortage, community mobilization and empowerment is an important health promotion intervention for underserved population in rural areas. In Uganda, Village health Teams were introduced to bridge the gap between rural populations and formal health facilities for improved access and utilization of ANC and HIV services among others. Since then, the government and Non- governmental organisations have engaged VHTs in mobilizing communities to access and utilize ANC and HIV services from their nearest health facilities. This study assessed community satisfaction with VHTs‘ mobilisation activities for ANC and HIV services in Masaka District. Methods: A cross sectional study using concurrent mixed method was employed; quantitative data were collected from 400respondents using structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise data and Pearson‘s Correlation co-efficient index test and mean scores were applied to determine the association of VHT mobilization and community satisfaction with VHT‘s mobilization activities. Qualitative data was collected through interviewing five (5) Key informants. They included four VHTs‘ focal persons from two sub counties and one (1) District VHT coordinator. Two FGDs were conducted in Buwunga and Kyabakuza / Kimanya respectively. Results: Among 400 respondents 69.8% were overall satisfied with VHTs mobilization activities. Pearson correlation co-efficient index R=0.701**(P=0.000)<0.05 indicated a high positive significant relationship between factors studied and satisfaction of VHTs mobilization activities for ANC and HIV services. Conclusions: Overall, 69.8% were satisfied with VHTs mobilization activities for ANC and HIV services. The level of satisfaction would increase with enhanced factors. District officials and implementing partners should embrace VHTs in mobilization activities for ANC and HIV.