Evaluation of role of mobilizers (ASHA & AWW) on village health and nutrition day (VHND) –Mamta day of study district

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Mamta Abhiyaan is one of the major approaches towards reaching the MDGs of reduction of MMR from present 178 to 100 and IMR from present 42 to 30 in India. Mamta Day is celebrated as an outreach services provision to each single beneficiary at grassroots level. Functionaries of Mamta day are FHW, ASHA, and AWW mainly. ASHA & AWW acts as community personnel which helps in counselling and mobilization for all services provided on Mamta day. The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of ASHA and AWW on VHND (Village health and nutrition day) i.e., Mamata day of study district. Materials and Methods: Quantitative and qualitative research method, cross sectional study was conducted in rural areas of western Gujarat covering 40 Mamta days. Every participant was clearly explained the purpose of study and their consent was taken. It was an anonymous study using pre structured proforma from available literature. Results: At 82.5 % sites, AWW was present whereas 77.5% sites ASHA workers were present. At 10 session sites ASHA did not have a due list of any beneficiary. Most sessions were conducted at Anganwadi and sub centre. At all 31 session sites, ASHA was mobilizing beneficiaries to the site; and at 6 (15%) session sites, there was not any mobiliser available. At 30 out of 31 session sites, ASHA was reminding beneficiaries for the next visit. AWW was involved in various services which varied from one session to another. Conclusion: The presence of all three frontline workers (AWW, ASHA, and ANM) is essential for comprehensive VHND services, but there are notable challenges, including incomplete beneficiary lists and inadequate tracking of left-out children, hampering effective growth monitoring.