Community Health Outcomes Research Articles

"Our Voices Will Get Louder": A Qualitative Exploration of Factors Influencing Arab/Middle Eastern North African (MENA) American Patient Participation in US-Based Health Care and Health Research.

Heightened anti-Arab/Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) xenophobia in the United States (US) coupled with the addition of a MENA category on the next US Census call into attention the health needs of this minoritized population. Targeted research is needed to better understand the factors that influence Arab/MENA American participation in US-based health research and health care. A novel qualitative interview guide was constructed to better understand the health research experiences, health care experiences and needs of Arab/MENA patients nationally. Patients were recruited through the Arab American Health Network Alliance (AAHNA) community connections. Semi-structured interviews were conducted virtually in English and Arabic, and qualitative data was interpreted through iterative thematic analysis using inductive reasoning. A total of seventeen interviews (n = 17) were completed (14 in English, 3 in Arabic). Notably, the majority identified as female (82%) and have resided in the US for 18years or longer (53%). Three main themes were identified (1) Individual-level Comfortability and Access to Research Participation, (2) Advancing Community Health Outcomes and Participation, and (3) Structural Barriers as Drivers of Health Disparities. The health research and health care experiences explored in this project have the potential of informing future inquiries on Arab/MENA American health. For instance, we suggest building community trust, providing equitable compensation and support, increasing health workforce diversity, and advocating for affordable health care, all to improve Arab/MENA patient participation in health research.

The Virtual Rural Generalist Service: a hybrid virtual model of care designed to improve health access and outcomes in rural and remote communities.

The Virtual Rural Generalist Service: a hybrid virtual model of care designed to improve health access and outcomes in rural and remote communities.

The correlation between oral and general health-related quality of life in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: The relationship between general health and oral health is critical for understanding the broader implications of oral health on overall well-being and vice versa. The impact of oral and general health on individuals can be comprehensively captured by the concepts oral and general health-related quality of life (OHRQoL and HRQoL), respectively. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the correlation between OHRQoL and HRQoL across different adult populations. Methods: A comprehensive search strategy was executed across six databases (Ovid MEDLINE(R), Embase, CINAHL, APA PsycINFO, Web of Science Core Collection, and Scopus). The search included studies measuring OHRQoL with the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) and HRQoL with a variety of generic patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Studies were included if they reported correlations between OHRQoL and HRQoL summary scores in adult populations across dental, medical, or non-patient settings. If a study examined more than one population, each correlation was included for independent analysis. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted by independent reviewers, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. Random effects meta-analysis was used to summarize the OHRQoL-HRQoL correlations. Results: From 10 studies, 13 populations (N=6,053 participants) were included in the analysis. The correlation between general health and oral health-related quality of life was of medium size (r=0.41, 95% CI: 0.32–0.50) with high heterogeneity across populations (I2=95%). Results were not unduly influenced by individual populations, study quality, or publication bias. Conclusions: The correlation between oral health and general health is of medium size, highlighting the potential for medical-dental integration to enhance patient and community health outcomes.

Prevalence and associated factors of uncontrolled blood pressure among hypertensive patients in a rural population of Salem, Tamil Nadu

ABSTRACT Introduction: Hypertension, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, is a prevalent public health concern globally. It imposes a substantial burden on healthcare systems, particularly in low and middle-income countries like India. Despite the availability of effective treatments, hypertension remains poorly controlled leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Rural areas often face unique challenges in managing hypertension due to limited healthcare access and awareness. Objectives: The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension and to identify associated factors among hypertensive patients in rural Salem. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at the Rural Health Training Centre over six months. A total of 382 hypertensive adults aged 18 years and above were included. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors and clinical profiles were collected using a pretested semistructured questionnaire. Clinical measurements included blood pressure, BMI, and laboratory investigations. Statistical analysis included Chi-square tests and logistic regression to determine factors associated with uncontrolled hypertension. Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension (62%) among rural hypertensive patients. Factors significantly associated with uncontrolled hypertension included older age (>60 years) (odds ratio [OR] = 2.3, P = 0.027), obesity (OR = 2.7, P = 0.001), employment (OR = 1.5, P = 0.048), diabetes (OR = 2.6, P = 0.036), alcohol consumption (OR = 2.8, P < 0.001), and lack of physical activity (OR = 3.2, P = 0.034). Compliance to treatment was associated with better blood pressure control (P = 0.002) with noncompliant patients having 1.23 times higher odds of uncontrolled hypertension. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the urgent need for tailored interventions addressing lifestyle modifications, patient education, adherence to treatment regimens, and improved healthcare access to enhance hypertension management. These efforts are crucial for reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases and improving public health outcomes in rural communities.

The Impact of Student-led Community Health Screenings on Clients' Health Knowledge and Outcomes: A Qualitative Study.

This study investigated the impact of community health screenings (CHS) on the Asian community, focussing on the role of a student-led health and wellness centre in promoting and improving health outcomes. The CHS is a collaboration between Te Kotahi Oranga | Health and Wellness Centre and The Asian Network Incorporated, offering free health screenings to Asian migrants in the Waikato region, New Zealand. Employing a qualitative approach, we interviewed clients who participated in the CHS to determine their perceptions regarding the effectiveness of the programme, its influence on their health knowledge and actions, and their overall satisfaction with the service. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist was used to report the study. Data analysis utilising reflexive thematic analysis yielded 5 themes: satisfaction and appreciation for the free health screening; strengthened commitment to better personal health; barriers and challenges in accessing public healthcare services; improved knowledge and awareness of health risks; and provision of more health screening tests and health seminars. The findings highlight the significance of culturally tailored health initiatives in addressing healthcare disparities, emphasising the need for innovative strategies to ensure continuity of care and support for underserved populations. This research contributes to the understanding of how student-led health interventions can enhance public health efforts and improve health outcomes in Asian and migrant communities.

Prevalence of beta thalassemia, heart failure and valvular abnormalities in children at tertiary care hospital

Objective: to evaluate, stratified by age and educational attainment, the distribution of pediatric beta-thalassemia, heart failure, and valve anomalies in order to find any appreciable variations in the prevalence rates. Methods: A study using a cross-sectional design was carried out on 115 youngsters. There were two age categories of participants: 43.5 percent were between the ages of 2 and 9 and 56.5% were those over 10. Children's educational status was divided into two categories: those who attend school (8.7%) and those who do not (91.3%). Medical records were used to gather information on the prevalence of valvular anomalies, heart failure, and beta-thalassemia. P-values and other statistical analyses were used to assess the significance of variations in prevalence rates among different age and educational groups. Result: 17.4% of participants in the research had beta-thalassemia; there were no significant variations in this condition between age groups (p=0.101) or educational attainment (p=0.820). Children who attended school had a higher prevalence of heart failure (69.6%) than children who did not attend school (34.4%), however this difference was not statistically significant (p=0.625). Children who did not attend school (38.2%) had considerably higher rates of valve anomalies than children who attended school (8.6%); a p-value of less than 0.001 indicated a highly significant difference. Conclusion: The study finds no significant changes in the prevalence of beta-thalassemia or heart failure across age and educational status, but it does show a substantial difference in the prevalence of valvular anomalies between children who attend school and those who do not. These results highlight how crucial it is to address socio-economic and educational gaps in order to improve health outcomes for communities that are already at risk.

Assessing the Impact of Community-Based Oral Health Education Programs on Dental Hygiene Practices and Oral Health Outcomes in Rural Populations

ABSTRACT Background: Community-based oral health education programs are essential in improving dental hygiene practices and oral health outcomes, particularly in rural populations where access to dental care is limited. This study assesses the impact of such programs on dental hygiene practices and oral health outcomes in rural communities. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 6-month oral health education program conducted in five rural villages. A total of 300 participants, aged 18-60 years, were selected through stratified random sampling. The intervention included bi-weekly educational sessions on oral hygiene practices, proper brushing techniques, and the importance of regular dental check-ups. Data on dental hygiene practices were collected through structured questionnaires at baseline and post-intervention. Oral health outcomes were assessed using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index and gingival health was evaluated through gingival index scores. Results: Post-intervention analysis showed a significant improvement in dental hygiene practices among participants, with 75% reporting regular brushing compared to 45% at baseline. The mean DMFT score decreased from 5.2 to 3.8 (P < 0.05), and the average gingival index score improved from 2.1 to 1.4 (P < 0.05). Additionally, the frequency of dental check-ups increased by 40%, indicating a positive behavioral shift in the community. Conclusion: Community-based oral health education programs significantly improve dental hygiene practices and oral health outcomes in rural populations.

'They got my back': Thematic analysis of relationship building in nurse home visiting in Aboriginal communities.

The client-practitioner relationship is the cornerstone of nurse home-visiting programs. Little is understood about how relationship-based maternal and early childhood health care is perceived by women in remote Aboriginal communities. As part of an evaluation of nurse home-visiting in the Northern Territory, this research examines how relationships are established with clients, and what elements are valued most by women. Maternal Early Childhood Sustained Home-visiting (MECSH) is an Australian model of nurse-led home-visiting targeted at women facing adversity who need extra support. The model provides parenting information, health education and psychosocial support during pregnancy and the first 3 years of children's development. Interviews were conducted with 92 Aboriginal women and 11 practitioners including nurses, social workers and community workers. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with convenience samples of MECSH clients and practitioners. Data were analysed using a two-step process of structural coding and thematic analysis. Trust was the foundation of clients' positive perception of the relationship with their MECSH provider. Relationships took time to develop, often beginning with practical support to meet clients' basic needs. Practitioner dependability and flexibility to client priorities, communication, confidentiality and being helpful to the woman and her family was important. Clients emphasised emotional support and friendship. The relationship-based approach was valued and consistent with culturally safe and trauma informed ways of working with Aboriginal families. Effort is required to commit to the model to address ongoing healthcare engagement and health outcomes in remote Northern Territory communities.

Immunogenicity of Therapeutic Antibodies Used for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Treatment and Clinical Considerations.

The introduction of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors has led to a paradigm shift in the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The subsequent introduction of both anti-integrins and cytokine blockers has since expanded the biologic armamentarium. However, immunogenicity, defined as the production of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs) to the prescribed biopharmaceutical, means a significant fraction of patients exposed to biologic agents will experience a secondary loss of response to one or more of the drugs. In clinical settings, immunogenicity may be caused by several factors, both patient related (e.g., underlying chronic disease, systemic immune burden, including previous biologic therapy failure, and [epi]genetic background) and treatment related (e.g., dose and administration regimens, drug physical structure, photostability, temperature, and agitation). Here, we outline these elements in detail to enhance biopharmaceutical delivery and therapy for patients with IBD. Moreover, concurrent immunomodulator medication may reduce the risks of ADA generation, especially when using the chimeric drug infliximab. Summarizing the latest developments and knowledge in the field, this review aims to provide strategies to prevent ADA production and information on managing non-responsiveness or loss of response to biologics. Better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of ADAs and the critical factors influencing the immunogenicity of biopharmaceuticals may lead to improved health outcomes in the IBD community that may benefit both the individual patient and society through lower healthcare expenses.

Correlations between environmental justice indicators and community-level COVID-19 vaccination rates among older adults

The purpose of this study is to assess to what extent environmental justice indicators have relationships with community-level COVID-19 vaccination rates among older populations in the United States. This ecological study explores the relationship between the COVID-19 vaccination rates and the Environmental Justice Index (EJI) on a spatial level. Multiple publicly available datasets, including COVID-19 vaccinations rates and EJI indicators obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, were linked and merged into a single dataset used for all analyses. Correlational analyses and multivariate regression models were conducted to analyze the associations between environmental and social indicators of EJI and the vaccination rates. Results showed that both the Social Vulnerability Module (SVM) and Environmental Burden Module (EBM) of the EJI had predictive relationships with the COVID-19 vaccination rates (β = − 3.86 and β = − 1.54, respectively). Among these domains, the vaccination rates had the strongest associations with the built environment (β = − 4.32) within EBM and the socioeconomic status (β = − 3.49) within SVM. The following indicators showed the strongest associations with vaccination rates: air toxic cancer risks (β = − 5.47), broadband access (β = − 5.19), recreational parks (β = − 4.87), education (β = − 4.75), civilian with disability (β = − 4.17), walkability (β = − 3.71), and poverty (β = − 3.67). This study provides empirical evidence supporting the use of environmental justice indicators as a standardized tool for evaluating public health outcomes. By understanding and addressing the intersection of social vulnerabilities and environmental factors, public health efforts can strive towards achieving equitable access to vaccination and improving overall community health outcomes.

Value-based outcome evaluation methods used by occupational therapists in primary care: a scoping review.

This scoping review aimed to map how occupational therapists evaluate the outcomes of services they provide within primary care. This evidence was considered in relation to how identified outcome evaluation methods align to principles of value-based health care. Primary care services are experiencing unprecedented demands. Occupational therapy is an allied health profession that supports health and care provision in primary care, using a timely and proactive approach. There has been a notable increase in occupational therapy roles across primary care services in the past decade; however, the mechanisms for evaluating outcomes and the wider impact of these services remain under-researched. The aim of value-based health care, a global transformative approach, is to establish better health outcomes for individuals and communities through addressing value in system-wide care. However, it is not yet clear how evaluation methods used within occupational therapy align to the principles of a value-based agenda. Peer-reviewed journal articles and gray literature written in English were included to identify outcome evaluation methods used by occupational therapists to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of occupational therapy services provided in a primary care setting. Outcome evaluation methods used exclusively for the purpose of conducting research and not for capturing data within an occupational therapy primary care setting as part of routine clinical practice were excluded. This review followed JBI methodology for scoping reviews. The literature search was undertaken during June and July 2022. The following databases were searched from their earliest dates of availability: Cochrane Library, MEDLINE via Ovid, Embase via Ovid, CINAHL via EBSCOhost, Scopus, AMED, and Web of Science. Two reviewers extracted data, supported by use of an extraction form developed by the reviewers. Findings were mapped using a framework developed based on key principles of value-based health care. From 2394 articles, 16 eligible studies were included in the review. Of these, 9 were quantitative and 7 were of mixed methods design. Studies were from the UK, USA, Sweden, Spain, and Canada. The occupational therapy services represented were mainly heterogeneous. Four services were part of multidisciplinary programs of care and 12 services were specific to occupational therapy. Identified outcome evaluation methods broadly aligned to principles of value-based health care, with most alignment noted for measures demonstrating the aim of establishing better health. A wide range of evaluation methods were described to address both individual-level and service-level outcomes, with the use of patient-reported outcome measures identified in 13 studies. To capture patient experience, most studies reported a variety of methods. The aim of reducing the per capita cost of health care was least represented in the literature. This scoping review highlights a multifaceted but inconsistent approach to measuring the outcomes of occupational therapy provided in primary care. This has implications for establishing effectiveness and capturing data at scale to assist with wider planning of care and to enable the profession to demonstrate its contribution to value-based health care. Open Science Framework https://osf.io/hnaq4/.

Factors associated with mental health outcomes in a Muslim community following the Christchurch terrorist attack.

On 15 March 2019, a white supremacist terrorist attacked two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Fifty-one people were killed and another 40 sustained non-fatal gunshot injuries. To examine the mental health of the Muslim community, and individual and exposure-related factors associated with mental health outcomes. This is the baseline analysis of a longitudinal study of adults from the Muslim community interviewed 11-32 months after the shootings. It included a diagnostic interview (MINI), measures of sociodemographic factors, prior mental health, prior traumatic events, exposure in the attacks, discrimination, life stressors, social support and religious coping. Logistic regression models examined associations with mental health outcomes. The sample comprised 189 participants (mean age 41 (s.d. = 13); 60% female), and included: bereaved, 17% (n = 32); injured survivors 12% (n = 22); non-injured survivors, 19% (n = 36); family members of survivors, 35% (n = 67); and community members without the above exposures, 39% (n = 74). Overall, 61% had at least one mental disorder since the attacks. Those bereaved (P < 0.01, odds ratio 4.28, 95% CI 1.75-10.49) and survivors, whether injured (P < 0.001, odds ratio 18.08, 95% CI 4.70-69.60) or not (P < 0.01, odds ratio 5.26, 95% CI 1.99-13.89), had greater odds of post-traumatic stress disorder. Those bereaved (P < 0.001, odds ratio 5.79, 95% CI 2.49-13.46) or injured (P = 0.04, odds ratio 4.43, 95% CI 1.07-18.28) had greater odds of depression. Despite unique features of this attack on a Muslim population, findings accord with previous studies. They suggest generalisability of psychopathology after terror attacks, and that being bereaved or directly experiencing such events is associated with adverse mental health outcomes. The study is registered on the Australian NZ Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12620000909921).

Racialized police use of force and maternal health

IntroductionThere are large racial disparities in maternal health that cannot be explained by education, income, or other individual-level risk factors. This cross-sectional study estimated associations between racial inequity in police use of force (PUOF) at the community level and health outcomes of Black and White women. MethodsBirth records were linked to maternal hospital discharge records and municipal police department data for 326,240 births occurring between 1/1/2012 and 12/31/2016 to Black and White women in New Jersey. Outcomes, identified using diagnosis and procedure codes, were substance use (any/tobacco/alcohol/other), mental health disorders (any/depression/anxiety/ other), asthma, obesity, hypertension (preexisting/gestational), diabetes (preexisting/gestational), severe maternal morbidity, other cardiovascular diseases, and preterm labor. Data were analyzed in 2024. ResultsFor Black women, living in a community with 1% greater racially-disproportionate PUOF was associated with higher odds of any mental health disorder [by 0.18%; 95% CI: 0.08-0.28], depression [0.19%; 95% CI: 0.05-0.33], anxiety [0.25%; 95% CI: 0.09-0.41], other mental health disorder [0.17%; 95% CI: 0.07-0.27], any substance use [0.26%; 95% CI: 0.14-0.38], tobacco use [0.31%; 95% CI: 0.16-0.46], other substance use [0.17%; 95% CI: 0.04-0.30], asthma [0.12%; 95% CI: 0.04-0.21], and preterm labor [0.17%; 95% CI: 0.05-0.29] in adjusted models. There were no robust associations with the other outcomes for Black women or with any of the outcomes for White women. ConclusionsRacially-disproportionate PUOF was significantly associated with mental illness, substance use, asthma, and preterm labor of Black women. Results underscore the potential importance of institutionalized racism as a fundamental cause of health disparities.

A conceptual framework for digital health marketing strategies to enhance public health outcomes in underserved communities

This paper proposes a conceptual framework for integrating digital health marketing strategies with public health initiatives to enhance healthcare access and outcomes in underserved communities. The framework focuses on leveraging digital marketing tools such as social media, mobile applications, email campaigns, and search engine optimization to disseminate critical health information, promote preventive measures, and engage communities in healthier behaviors. It addresses the persistent challenges faced by underserved populations, including limited healthcare access, low health literacy, and cultural barriers, by utilizing the accessibility and broad reach of digital channels. The proposed framework incorporates three core components: (1) Health Information Dissemination, which explores the use of targeted digital campaigns to provide culturally relevant and accessible health education; (2) Community Engagement, which leverages interactive platforms such as social media and mobile apps to foster participation in preventive healthcare initiatives and healthy lifestyle practices; and (3) Behavioral Change Promotion, which emphasizes using digital tools to influence health behaviors through personalized messaging, reminders, and virtual support groups. By integrating digital marketing strategies into public health programs, the framework aims to improve healthcare outcomes by increasing awareness of preventive measures, enhancing early diagnosis, and promoting disease management. It also underscores the role of data analytics in refining outreach efforts by identifying specific health needs, tracking engagement, and measuring the effectiveness of interventions. This conceptual framework holds promise for healthcare providers, policymakers, and digital marketers seeking to enhance public health outcomes in underserved communities. It provides a structured approach to combining the strengths of digital marketing with public health goals, creating more inclusive, accessible, and effective health interventions. Future research and case studies can build on this model to refine digital health marketing strategies and assess their long-term impact on public health in underserved populations.

9.B. Scientific session: Promoting health in the digital age: a room to improve health literacy and digital health literacy?

Abstract The workshop aims to explore innovative approaches to promoting health literacy and digital health literacy and their impact on individual and community health outcomes at different stages of life. This initiative is driven by the recognition that digital platforms and tools offer unprecedented opportunities to improve population health through health education and behavior change. The workshop will feature a dynamic and interactive format starting from plenary sessions in which speakers will provide insights into digital health promotion best practices and their outcomes, offering diverse perspectives. The added value of organizing this workshop lies in its comprehensive approach to integrating digital tools into health prevention strategies, particularly for addressing childhood smoking. By examining innovative digital interventions, the workshop provides a platform for sharing insights and strategies that leverage technology to promote healthier lifestyles among youth. This is increasingly pertinent as digital platforms become central in the daily interactions of young people. The coherence between the presentations revolves around the theme of enhancing digital health literacy as a preventive measure against health issues. The first presentation sets the stage by exploring digital tools that educate and engage young people about the dangers of smoking. The subsequent session builds on this by assessing the current state of digital health education and literacy, emphasizing the need for curriculum integration and better training for educators to support these initiatives effectively. Finally, the meta-analysis presentation ties everything together by evaluating the effectiveness of these digital interventions across various demographics, offering evidence-based recommendations for tailoring health literacy programs to diverse needs. Together, these presentations form a cohesive narrative on the critical role of digital literacy in health prevention, illustrating a clear pathway from educational content to educational infrastructure, and culminating in broad-based intervention strategies that can be adapted to different settings and populations. This coherence enhances the workshop’s impact, providing attendees with a well-rounded understanding of how digital tools can be harnessed to foster long-term health improvements from an early age. Live Q&amp;A sessions will encourage dialogue between speakers and attendees, enhancing the learning experience. By combining expert knowledge with interactive discussions, the workshop aims to share insights needed to implement effective digital health promotion strategies. Key messages • The role of health literacy and digital health literacy in improving health outcomes demands that the efficacy of the most effective strategies be evaluated. • Digital tools offer opportunities for innovative health promotion approaches and tools.

Discrimination and health outcomes in England's black communities amid the cost-of-living crisis: evaluating the role of inflation and Bank Rates

ABSTRACT This study utilised longitudinal data from Black History Month events in London from 2021 to 2023. Novel findings revealed that increased inflation and Bank Rates, related to the cost-of-living crisis, were associated with greater discrimination and deteriorations in both general and mental health for Black individuals. Moreover, it was found that during the cost-of-living crisis period, i.e. 2022–2023, discrimination was more adversely related to general and mental health deterioration compared to the period before the cost-of-living crisis, i.e. 2021. In addition, women, non-native individuals, non-heterosexual individuals, the unemployed, economically inactive individuals, those with lower educational attainment, and older individuals experienced higher levels of discrimination and reduced general and mental health compared to reference groups. The findings of the study contribute to the literature by demonstrating the intertwined associations of macroeconomic deteriorations and discrimination with the health of the Black community, and its subgroup differences, providing a basis for targeted policies.

Utilization Postnatal Care Services in Hyolmo Community

Postnatal care (PNC) utilization among the Hyolmo community highlights significant gaps in existing literature and underscores the critical need for targeted healthcare interventions in remote and ethnically distinct populations. This study reveals that, while considerable attention is given to urban and accessible rural populations, remote communities face unique challenges that can impede access to essential maternal health services. The results demonstrate that age, education, and socio-economic factors significantly influence PNC uptake, suggesting disparities that are compounded in remote areas like the Helambu Rural Municipality of Sindhupalchowk District. This study shows that younger mothers, often less aware or hindered by accessibility barriers, are less likely to utilize PNC services compared to their older counterparts. This disparity highlights the necessity for community-specific educational programs that can enhance understanding and encourage the use of PNC services among younger women. Additionally, the influence of education and socio-economic status on PNC utilization points to the broader implications of systemic inequities in healthcare access. Moreover, the study brings to light the role of cultural practices and beliefs in shaping healthseeking behaviors, which varies significantly across different communities. In the traditional beliefs may conflict with modern healthcare practices, there is a clear need for culturally sensitive health interventions that respect and integrate local customs and practices. This research not only contributes to a deeper understanding of the factors affecting PNC service uptake in a specific Nepalese community but also calls for comprehensive policy responses. By addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by the Hyolmo community ranging from geographic isolation to cultural and educational barriers the study advocates for a holistic approach to healthcare. This should include the development of policies that ensure equitable access to health services, enhance community health education, and promote cultural competence among healthcare providers. Ultimately, such efforts are essential for improving maternal and infant health outcomes in remote communities, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their socio-economic or cultural background, has access to the necessary postnatal care.

The role of social work intervention in promoting mental health and resilience in communities: Ubuntu perspective

The prevalence of mental health illness is on the rise throughout the world. Mental health is increasingly one of the most overwhelming conditions that has an effect on the social functioning of individuals and families within communities. Mental Health Care Act, No 17 of 2002 of the South African government provides for the protection of individuals and communities against mental health. Still, people continue to experience mental health problems at a high rate. Social workers have a fundamental role to play in improving mental health services and outcomes for communities. Social work services have the potential to improve the lives of people with mental health conditions and build resilience in individuals and families. Resilience is a critical technique that assists individuals to function properly despite the challenges they may have experienced. Research has shown that people with mental health problems struggle to return back to normality. This article aims to explore the roles of social work intervention in promoting mental health and resilience in communities. The study was conducted by analyzing research or studies related to mental health and resilience. The study carried out comprehensive desktop electronic research to gather data and themes from previous studies. The analysis showed that mental health is still a major concern, and social workers have an important role to play in building resilience for individuals and families.

Perception of Traditional Medicine During Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Postpartum in the Tacueyo Indigenous Reservation, Cauca, Colombia

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the perception of traditional medicine use during gestation processes in the Tacueyo Indigenous Reservation. The aim is to understand how indigenous women in the reservation perceive and utilize this resource during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum in the period 2021-2022. Theoretical Framework: This study is relevant in a context of high maternal and perinatal morbidity rates, focusing on ancestral practices to improve adherence to prenatal and postpartum care, contributing to the reduction of maternal mortality. Method: The study was guided by qualitative methodology and an ethnographic approach, using semi-structured interviews with 10 women. Results and Discussion: The results revealed the use of medicinal plants, interculturality as a protective factor, and barriers to accessing effective medical care. Research Implications: The implications of this research highlight the need to strengthen collaboration between traditional health practices and local health institutions within the framework of the Indigenous Own and Intercultural Health System (SISPI). Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by highlighting its intercultural approach and the integration of ancestral knowledge with modern public health to improve maternal health outcomes in indigenous communities.

COVID Just-in-Time Extension for Community Health Outcomes: A Collaborative Information-Sharing Platform for a School Health Community.

The COVID-19 pandemic challenged school health professionals to navigate a dynamic public health emergency and to stay aware of changing recommendations. This study aimed to determine the value of the COVID Just-in-Time ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) Learning Series for Schools among participating school health personnel and to describe their ongoing information needs during the pandemic. School health, public health, and education professionals across Colorado participated in this ECHO series. Participants attended 1-hour sessions every 2 to 4 weeks from March 2020 through December 2021 for a total of 34 sessions. Data collection included postsession and postseries surveys assessing what participants found most valuable and what additional information they needed. School nurses represented 113 of 224 participants (50%). ECHO content noted as being the most valuable included epidemiology updates and special topics as chosen by participant input. Postseries surveys identified the value of experiencing shared knowledge among Just-in-Time ECHO participants. Participants identified ongoing needs for information about COVID-19 guidance and risk mitigation in schools throughout the sessions. In postseries surveys, participants reported additional ongoing information needs related to COVID-19 outside schools. This ECHO series delivered reliable and time-sensitive information for school health personnel and school leaders and may provide a useful model for information sharing among education and public health professionals.