Program Implementers Research Articles

Understanding caregivers’ and community influencers’ perspectives on the barriers to childhood immunisation in Northern Nigerian States with public-private partnerships in routine immunisation programme

Abstract Background Despite investments by the Nigerian government and international organisations in childhood immunisation to combat child mortality, coverage in many northern states remains below the national average, thereby increasing the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases. This paper examines the barriers to immunisation in six states in northeast and northwest Nigeria, which have the lowest vaccination coverage rates in the country. Method We conducted 24 focus group discussions (FGDs) with mothers/caregivers and community influencers who collaborate with health workers to provide routine immunisation. The socio-ecological framework informed the design of the FGDs. We thematically analysed inductively and deductively coded data on NVivo version 12. Results Barriers to immunisation uptake included: Individual and interpersonal level - limited female mobility, adverse events after immunisation; community level - misconceptions and myths about vaccines, religious beliefs and norms, health provider-patient gender discordance, mistrust of immunisation; system level - poor health worker attitude, ineffective documentation of immunisation appointments, distance to health facilities, inadequate human resource capacity at health facilities, vaccine supply shortages, and lack of incentives. Conclusion This study highlights the intricate barriers to immunisation uptake in northern Nigeria. Key recommendations include engaging male caregivers through tailored social and behavioural change initiatives and capacity building for health workers to improve their counselling skills on vaccine side effects. Findings from the study provide valuable insights for policymakers and programme implementers. Implementing these interventions can tackle ongoing challenges and improve routine immunisation in these states.

Medicaid Accountable Care Organization Implementation and Perinatal Claims Documentation of Social Risk Factors.

Addressing social risk factors (eg, food insecurity) during the perinatal period has the potential to improve pregnancy-related outcomes. While social risk factor diagnosis codes (ie, International Statistical Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Z codes) were introduced in 2016, adoption in claims has been slow. In 2018, Massachusetts' Medicaid program implemented an accountable care organization (ACO) model, including a requirement that all ACOs screen for social risks. To assess claims documentation of Z codes in the perinatal period for Medicaid enrollees and evaluate changes in documentation following implementation of Massachusetts' Medicaid ACO program. This cross-sectional study used the Massachusetts All-Payer Claims Database to identify all Medicaid-enrolled live deliveries between January 31, 2016, and December 31, 2020, among people 18 years or older. A difference-in-differences (DiD) approach was used to compare Z code documentation before (2016-2017) vs after (2018-2020) ACO implementation for Medicaid ACO vs non-ACO deliveries. Data were analyzed between August 23, 2024, and January 27, 2025. Attribution to a Medicaid ACO (vs non-ACO), determined based on whether an enrollee's primary care physician participated in an ACO. The primary outcome was claims documentation of any Z code, measured separately for the prenatal period, 60 days post partum, 12 months post partum, and the full perinatal period. Secondary outcomes included documentation of specific Z codes (eg, housing, food insecurity). The study sample included 79 293 deliveries (mean [SD] age of Medicaid-enrolled pregnant people, 28.2 [5.7] years), of which 69 535 (87.7%) were in a Medicaid ACO. Among all Medicaid deliveries from 2016 to 2020, 4.45% had claims documentation of a Z code in the prenatal period; 1.14%, within 60 days post partum; and 3.31%, within 12 months post partum. Within the prenatal period, Medicaid ACO implementation was associated with statistically significant increases in documentation of any Z code (DiD, 1.09 [95% CI, 0.38-1.80] percentage points [PP]), housing or economic circumstances codes (DiD, 1.52 [95% CI, 1.07-1.97] PP), and food insecurity codes (DiD, 0.58 [95% CI, 0.42-0.73] PP). The Medicaid ACO was associated with few changes in Z code documentation in the postpartum period. In this cross-sectional study of Medicaid-enrolled live births in Massachusetts, ACO implementation was associated with increased claims documentation of Z codes during the perinatal period, driven by increases in the prenatal period. While Z code documentation remains low, implementation of care delivery models that incentivize screening and documentation of social risk factors among Medicaid enrollees may help to identify the care needs of pregnant and postpartum people.

Coaching teachers on instructional decision-making and implementation of an evidence-based early reading program

PurposeTo identify the virtual coaching practices used to support implementation and instructional decision-making in an evidence-based early reading program, Targeted Reading Instruction (TRI).Design/methodology/approachA priori codes based on Schön’s (1987) reflective practicum were used to code coaching practices used during the implementation of TRI with eight coach–teacher dyads. Coaches provided direct support via video conferencing to teachers implementing TRI lessons with a student. Constant comparative analysis (Glaser and Strauss, 1967) was used to identify patterns of coaching behaviors used to enhance implementation and to support instructional decision-making.FindingsSimilar practices (suggesting, questioning and modeling) were used in both coaching for implementation and coaching for instructional decision-making. Coaches changed their focus over time, moving from emphasizing implementation to supporting instructional decision-making as teachers became more proficient at implementing TRI.Originality/valueThere is a need to understand the specific ways coaches support the implementation of evidence-based practices, especially in the context of virtual coaching. Coaching tied to the implementation of evidence-based practices is often characterized as directive and prescriptive; this study revealed a more collaborative approach to supporting implementation.

A mobile technology-based tailored health promotion program for sedentary employees: development and usability study

BackgroundProlonged sedentary behavior in workplace settings is associated with increased health risks, including chronic diseases and reduced productivity. While various mobile health (mHealth) interventions exist, most focus on single behaviors such as physical activity (PA) or sedentary time, with limited solutions integrating diet, PA, and sedentary behavior for sedentary employees.ObjectiveThis study aimed to develop Simple Health, an evidence- and theory-based mHealth web app designed to promote healthy eating, increase PA, and reduce sedentary time among sedentary employees. The study also evaluated the app’s usability.MethodsThe study followed a two-phase approach. In Phase 1, Simple Health was developed by a multidisciplinary team using social cognitive theory and the ecological model as theoretical foundations. Behavior change techniques such as goal-setting, self-monitoring, and personalized feedback were incorporated. In Phase 2, usability testing was conducted with eight sedentary employees. Participants used Simple Health for five days and completed the mHealth app usability questionnaire (MAUQ) to assess ease of use, interface satisfaction, and perceived usefulness. Open-ended feedback was also collected to identify areas for improvement.ResultsMost participants (87.5%) found Simple Health easy to use, with usability scores indicating favorable responses across ease of use (mean: 2.20/7), interface satisfaction (mean: 1.91/7), and usefulness (mean: 1.98/7). Participants valued the simplicity of behavior logging and the actionability of personalized advice. Suggestions for improvement included increasing goal-setting flexibility and refining navigation to enhance user experience.ConclusionsThe development and usability evaluation of Simple Health demonstrate its potential as a workplace mHealth intervention that integrates PA promotion, sedentary behavior reduction, and dietary tracking. While usability feedback was generally positive, refinements such as improved navigation and enhanced goal-setting flexibility could further optimize engagement. Future iterations should explore automatic syncing with wearable devices and expanded implementation in workplace wellness programs to assess long-term adoption and effectiveness.

Stakeholder perspectives on surveillance of physical activity and monitoring and evaluation of interventions in Saudi Arabia

BackgroundPromoting physical activity (PA) has been one of the key strategic priorities in Saudi Arabia. At the population level, policies targeting PA can potentially enhance health and well-being. One of the objectives of the Quality-of-Life Program within the Saudi Vision 2030 is to increase public participation in sports and PA. The present paper describes the outcomes of a participatory workshop focusing on stakeholder perceptions of the current state of surveillance of PA and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of PA programs and initiatives.MethodsA workshop was organized fostering a discussion between 29 key attendees from 8 different government entities and other organizations representing the policymakers, researchers, planners, and implementers of programs that focus on promoting or evaluating PA. Stakeholder perceptions on the current state of M&E and surveillance of PA were gathered. A list of actions generated from the identified gaps in the established programs was created, and areas of opportunities for collaboration were identified.ResultsThe stakeholder discussion highlighted key themes related to PA surveillance, M&E, including the perceived strengths and challenges and the key priority actions to address the gaps. Additional important steps include creating a national strategy and action plan for PA, with M&E framework that comprises key goals, targets, indicators, unified data collection methods, and guidance on ensuring coordinated and wide dissemination.ConclusionM&E of PA in Saudi Arabia requires a multi-stakeholder, multi-sectoral approach, facilitated by creating a specialized governance and leadership committee. Some recommendations include establishing a multi-sectoral structure to lead PA in Saudi Arabia and developing mechanisms for sharing experiences and knowledge. Policymakers need to embrace such an agenda and advance discussions on the scope and structure of M&E and surveillance systems for PA.

From Disaster to Resilience: Applying One Health Principles in the Recovery of Animal Production Systems in Brazil

Abstract This case study reports on the experience of an agricultural technical assistance program implemented in a territory affected by the collapse of the Fundão mining tailings dam, Mariana/MG, in 2015. The environmental disaster had profound repercussions on local agricultural production, causing problems such as lack of adequate vaccination, indiscriminate use of antibiotics, poor nutrition of herds, low animal welfare, precarious facilities, heat stress, degraded pastures, and low milk quality. To address these challenges, the technical assistance program was developed with the aim of mitigating the productive and environmental impacts of the disaster. Among the main results achieved are the creation of a vaccination schedule for herds and flocks, the implementation of an artificial insemination program to improve herd genetics, and the adoption of good milking practices and milk quality analysis. Improved pasture management was also carried out, including staking, fertilization, recovery of degraded areas, and afforestation, in addition to guidance on mineralization and herd nutrition. These advances demonstrate how the integration of sustainable practices and the One Health approach can promote animal, human and environmental health, contributing to the resilience and sustainability of the agricultural system affected by the disaster. Information © The Authors 2025

Understanding adaptations in a community-vetted COVID-19 testing program

BackgroundAdaptations are expected when complex public health interventions are implemented in dynamically and rapidly changing real-world settings, as seen for many programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Systematic documentation of adaptations to intervention components and strategies are critical when assessing their impact on implementation. Here, we report processes used for tracking and evaluating adaptations made during the CO-CREATE project, which aimed to address COVID-19 testing disparities in the San Ysidro US/Mexico border community.MethodsThe study utilized a longitudinal, prospective, mixed methods approach to systematically document and assess adaptations across the pre-implementation, early and mid/late-implementation phases of the project. Aggregated from a combination of sources (i.e., meeting notes, Advisory Board transcripts, and periodic reflections), adaptations were entered weekly into an electronic database that captured information on 16 characteristics and were validated by study staff. The impacts of the adaptations were determined using a team consensus approach and based on the outcomes from the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance framework. Each adaptation was evaluated to determine whether it increased, decreased, had no effect, or not applicable to the RE-AIM outcomes. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.Results98 adaptations were identified, and most were identified by research staff (n = 79, 75.2%). Planned adaptations were defined as those discussed between at least two research team members prior to implementation. Unplanned adaptations were defined as a change made without shared discussion and agreement among at least 2 research team members. Most adaptations were planned (n = 93, 94.9%). Of those that were planned, (n = 21, 22.6%) occurred during pre-implementation, (n = 26, 28.0%) during early implementation, and (n = 46, 49.4%) during mid/late implementation. Of those that were unplanned, (n = 1, 20.0%) occurred during pre-implementation and (n = 4, 80.0%) occurred during implementation. Most adaptations (n = 45, 45.9%) had a positive impact (i.e., increase) on the efficiency of delivery of services, meaningful engagement of partners, and reach of community members through the program.ConclusionThis work describes our systematic and prospective approach to document and analyze adaptations over a two-year period and assesses the impact of these adaptations. Lessons learned from this work can be used to develop best practices for adapting interventions to ensure sustainable implementation and address disparities in public health and clinical programs.

Evaluating a Community-Based Rehabilitation Program Using Provus Discrepancy Evaluation Model

Background: This study assessed the implementation of the Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) program in Cebu using the Provus Discrepancy Evaluation Model. The evaluation compared the actual program implementation with the ideal parameters set by the World Health Organization (WHO) CBR standards, identifying discrepancies. Methods: A quantitative descriptive-evaluative research design was employed, with two respondent groups: program implementers and program clients, ensuring data triangulation. Data were gathered through one-on-one interviews, using WHO’s 2004 standardized guidelines and indicators from the International Disability and Development Consortium (IDDC) as the evaluation framework. Key components assessed included health, education, livelihood, empowerment, and social aspects. Results: The study identified discrepancies across these five CBR components, primarily attributed to limited resources and expertise available for service delivery. In the Philippine context, most indicators under health and education were effectively implemented, successfully enhancing the lives of persons with disabilities and their families. However, the livelihood, empowerment, and social components showed significant gaps, with several indicators or services yet to be fully implemented. Conclusion: These findings underscore the need for resource allocation and capacity-building to improve these critical areas of the CBR program.

Prevalence and burden of HBV-HIV co-morbidity: a global systematic review and meta-analysis.

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Because of the shared modes of transmission, co-infections of HBV are common among people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. While the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has significantly improved the life expectancy of HIV patients, hepatitis viral co-infections have become increasingly important. Particularly, HBV infection remains under-diagnosed and under-reported, despite its highly infectious nature. Therefore, this review was aimed at understanding the burden of hepatitis B disease among adults living with HIV receiving ART. Using pertinent search terms, all research found in Google Scholar, HINARI, EMBAS, Scopus, and PubMed was located. Data were extracted following the evaluation of the evidence using the Joanna Briggs Institute's cross-sectional and cohort study methodologies. A total of 18 groups involving 71,411 adults with HBV-HIV were selected for the study. Of those, 10.21% with 95% CI (5.06, 15.36) and 11.05% with 95% CI (2.78, 19.32) of HBV-HIV adults worldwide had an overall prevalence of HBV, with an I2 value of 0.0% (p-value = 0.729) and an I2 value of 0.0% (p-value = 0.818) from cross-sectional and cohort studies, respectively. The global prevalence of people living with HBV-HIV is high, which poses a serious risk to public health. The review can clearly show the current pooled prevalence of HIV-HBV in the world, which may be helpful for policymakers because a large number of recent studies were included in it. Thus, it is strongly advised to broaden the current preventive and control program's purview and implement new, sensitive screening, testing, and treatment techniques. To raise community awareness, it would also be preferable to revamp the current prevention and control program and establish target-specific task forces at various health facility levels.

Effectiveness of second step program in fostering social-emotional skills in young children: a study in Japan

BackgroundInterest in social-emotional skills in the context of school maladjustment is growing, and social-emotional learning can help develop such skills. Second Step is a social-emotional skills approach prevalent in several countries. In Asian countries, including Japan, preventive interventions for school maladjustment in young children are scarce, and their effectiveness is not adequately validated. This study examines the effectiveness of the social-emotional learning “Second Step program” among children aged 4 to 5 years.MethodsIn 2022, the Second Step program was implemented on a class-by-class basis for children aged 4 to 5 years enrolled in middle grades of a kindergarten in Japan. The program included 25 sessions, each lasting one hour on average, approximately once a week. To test the effectiveness of the program, kindergarten teachers assessed the children’s social skills. Parents assessed their children’s behaviors. Data of 73 children in the intervention group and 91 in the control group were analyzed. The intervention group participated in the Second Step program, while the control group did not participate in any program. Evaluations were conducted before and after the intervention program.ResultsChildren in the intervention group displayed significantly greater assertiveness, self-control, and cooperation scores following program implementation compared with those in the control group. They also showed significantly lower scores on behavioral problems compared with those in the control group and before the program. The intervention had a meaningful impact on both social competencies and behavioral outcomes. Specifically, the effect sizes for social competencies in the intervention group were moderate to large, reflecting substantial improvements.ConclusionsThe social-emotional learning Second Step program implemented on a classroom basis may be effective in early childhood. An early approach targeting kindergarten-aged children is necessary to prevent school maladjustment.

ТЕРАПЕВТИЧНЕ САДІВНИЦТВО ЯК ІННОВАЦІЙНИЙ МЕТОД РЕАБІЛІТАЦІЇ:ПЕРСПЕКТИВИ ІНТЕГРАЦІЇ В СІЛЬСЬКИЙ ЗЕЛЕНИЙ ТУРИЗМ В УКРАЇНІ

The study explores the potential of therapeutic horticulture as an innovative approach to rehabilitation. The article examines global experiences in implementing horticultural therapy, highlighting its impact on physical and mental health. Special attention is given to the therapeutic mechanisms of horticulture and its potential integration into Ukraine’s rehabilitation system. Additionally, the study considers the role of rural green tourism as a complementary method that enhances the recovery process by fostering human interaction with nature. The study identifies key challenges and opportunities in developing horticultural therapy and provides recommendations for its implementation in rehabilitation programs. The purpose of this study is to justify the relevance of therapeutic horticulture in rehabilitation, determine its role in improving physical and psychological well-being, and assess the feasibility of its integration into Ukraine’s healthcare and social sectors. The research focuses on identifying the most effective therapeutic approaches, analyzing existing barriers to implementation, and outlining strategic directions for the development of horticultural therapy as a structured rehabilitation method. The study also explores the synergy between horticultural therapy and rural green tourism, highlighting its potential in sustainable rehabilitation models.

The Role of MPPL Students in Character Education at MTS Alkhairaat Bohotokong

Character education is a very important element in shaping students' personalities. Students involved in the Field Experience Internship Program (MPPL) at MTS Alkhairaat Bohotokong play a strategic role in the development of character education. This article will discuss the contribution of MPPL students in character education, the methods applied, and the impacts they produce. The purpose of this article is to examine the role of students in character education at MTS Alkhairaat Bohotokong. This study uses a descriptive approach to reveal how students contribute to shaping students' characters through social activities that instill the country's basic values and participation in preserving local culture. The results of the study indicate that students have an important role as examples, organizational drivers, and implementers of community service programs. Character education implemented through project-based learning, social skills training, and extracurricular activities not only helps students achieve good academic achievement but also forms positive characters. Therefore, the active involvement of students has a significant impact on shaping a young generation that is responsible and has integrity

Characteristics of mandates for evidence-based behavioral health interventions in 8 selected US states.

Characteristics of mandates for evidence-based behavioral health interventions in 8 selected US states.

The importance of contextually specific support relationships in implementing programs to link people to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) treatment during reentry from county jails

BackgroundThis study uses the Practical, Robust, Implementation, and Sustainability Model (PRISM) and Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) model to describe how features of jail contexts are associated with the number of people linked to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and sustainment of jail linkage programs implemented in Wave 1 of the HEALing Communities Study in Kentucky (HCS-KY) from 2021 to 22. The HCS-KY is part of a parallel-group, cluster-randomized wait-list controlled trial examining the effects of supporting wide-scale implementation of evidence-based practices to reduce opioid overdose deaths. One strategy involved implementation of MOUD linkage programs within five Kentucky county jails. Minutes from program planning and maintenance meetings led by HCS-KY implementation facilitators with linkage staff/supervisors and jail liaisons/partners (average of five participants/meeting) were coded following PRISM-RE-AIM using template analysis to understand variations in participation across sites as well as barriers to and facilitators of MOUD linkage implementation.ResultsAcross the five jails, 277 participants met with linkage staff during and/or post-incarceration for 1,119 visits conducted in-person or via phone/video conference. Twenty-six participants linked to community-based MOUD treatment during the implementation period. Participation differed across sites based on jail and linkage staff utilization of implementation support strategies but did not affect program sustainment, which all jails pursued in some form. Qualitative analysis yielded four overarching themes characterizing jail linkage program implementation. First, program integration into jail infrastructure entailed navigation of jail facilities and technologies as well as legal factors surrounding linkage staff backgrounds and information-sharing. Second, adapting the intervention to site-specific needs required providing training and implementation support to jail and linkage staff tailored to each jail context. Third, facilitating inter-organizational and cross-system coordination was related to collaboration successes and challenges among the HCS-KY team, linkage staff, the courts, and other provider partners. Finally, staffing and legal factors influenced sustainment.ConclusionsOnly ~ 10% of participants linked to community-based MOUD despite intensive implementation support, yet jails highly valued the program and planned for sustainment. Given the complexities in postponing treatment initiation until reentry, we call for simultaneous efforts to integrate MOUD screening and treatment into jail booking processes.

Analysis of the Implementation of Administrative Decentralization in Dili, Timor Leste

This study raises issues related to the implementation of administrative decentralization policies in the Municipality of Dili, Timor Leste, which have shown progress but are still faced with various challenges that hinder their effectiveness. The purpose of this study is to analyze the inhibiting factors in the implementation of decentralization policies and evaluate their impact on the quality of public services and community participation. The approach used in this study is qualitative with interview methods and document analysis to gain an in-depth understanding of the existing conditions. The results of the study indicate that prematurity in policy implementation, lack of qualified human resources, and inadequate infrastructure are the main factors inhibiting the success of decentralization. The formulated decentralization program aims to improve the quality of public services and community participation, but the program implementers, namely the local government, still face limitations in terms of training and experience. The target group of this program includes the community in the Municipality of Dili who are expected to be able to actively participate in decision-making, but there is still dissatisfaction in several areas which indicates that the needs of the community have not been fully met.

Measuring the Longitudinal Impact of a Health Professions Education Academy on Scholarship: A Bibliometric Analysis.

Academies highlight the educational mission that is often second to clinical and basic science scholarship on health professions campuses. They help bridge the gap between faculty development and continuing professional development. Owing to their popularity, academies have proliferated across the United States and Canada during the past 3 decades. Yet the evidence of the extent to which academies have had impact on their organizations remains largely underdeveloped. In this article, the authors used logic modeling as a framework to align the research mission, programming, and longitudinal goals of the Duke Academy for Health Professions, Education and Academic Development across the span of a decade. Furthermore, we used bibliometric analysis as a program evaluation tool. Through three different case examples, we share how bibliometrics may be used to track faculty publications in health professions education journals and to assess the impact of an academy's investment on its members and the institution at large. Finally, we illustrate that longitudinal implementation of scholarship and grants programming can be an effective strategy for fostering the development of health professions education research and encouraging scholarly innovation.

Integrating Temporality and Causality into Acyclic Argumentation Frameworks Using a Transition System

In the context of abstract argumentation, we present the benefits of considering temporality, i.e. the order in which arguments are enunciated, as well as causality. We propose a formal method to rewrite the concepts of acyclic abstract argumentation frameworks into an action language that allows us to model the evolution of the world and to establish causal relationships between the enunciation of arguments and their consequences on the acceptability of other arguments, whether direct or indirect. An Answer Set Programming implementation is also described. Furthermore, we lay the ground for the generation of explanations using the causal relations as well as two graphical representations to support such explanations.

Respiratory Rehabilitation Programs in Portugal: Rapid Review

Introduction: Respiratory rehabilitation is an essential intervention in the management of respiratory diseases, focusing on physical symptoms and psychological aspects that pharmacological therapy alone cannot resolve. The aim of this review was to map the existing evidence on respiratory rehabilitation programs implemented in Portugal. Method: A rapid literature review was carried out, following the recommendations of Cochrane Rapid Reviews, PICoS strategy and PRISMA guidelines. Evidence was sought regarding the implementation of programs, services offered and user needs. The search included EBSCOHost and B-on databases, with study selection by two independent reviewers. Results: Twelve articles were included, presenting a high level of evidence and medium to high methodological quality. Inductive thematic analysis revealed central topics: program organization, accessibility, transition pathways, benefits, structures, management, and user perspectives. Conclusion: Several variables influence the success of programs, such as high costs, geographic inequalities, insufficient supply and limited capacity of the hospital network. Alternatives such as home-based programs, telerehabilitation and community initiatives show promise for expanding access to and effectiveness of respiratory rehabilitation. These findings suggest that the integration of innovative approaches can contribute to overcoming current limitations, promoting improvements in patients' quality of life. Future studies should confirm evidence. Keywords: Respiratory Diseases; Respiratory Rehablitation; Respiratory Rehabilitation Services.

Empowerment of Muslim Communities Through the Use of Village Funds (Case Study of Aek Tapa Labuhanbatu Utara Village)

This study aims to analyze the empowerment of the Muslim community through the use of Village Funds in Aek Tapa Village, North Labuhanbatu Regency. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative approach with the Triple Helix model which involves synergy between the government, the community, and academics. Primary data was obtained through interviews with village officials, while secondary data came from the 2024 APBDes realization document and related literature. Data collection techniques include literature studies, documentation, and field research. The results of the study show that the use of Village Funds in Aek Tapa Village has significantly improved the quality of life of the Muslim community. The programs implemented, such as infrastructure development, entrepreneurship training, and empowerment of Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes), have contributed to increasing household income and community participation in economic activities. In addition, the strengthening of Islamic values is also reflected through the construction of informal educational institutions, such as Madrasah Diniyah and TPA, as well as the implementation of religion-based social programs. However, there are several challenges, such as lack of community participation in program planning and limited capacity of village governments in managing funds optimally. To overcome this obstacle, it is necessary to increase community involvement, fund management training for village officials, and develop a better monitoring and evaluation system. Triple Helix Proven Approach effective in improving community welfare through inclusive and sustainable management of Village Funds.

Effect of India’s flagship conditional maternity benefit scheme on utilization of maternal and child health services: evidence from a statewide evaluation study

BackgroundThe Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) is India’s flagship Maternity Benefit Programme to improve maternal nutrition and child health. This study evaluates the functional status of the scheme, knowledge regarding the scheme and its effect on pattern of service utilization in a north Indian state.MethodsA three-pronged mixed-methods evaluation including household survey of beneficiary and non-beneficiary women, in-depth interviews of key stakeholders (district and state level program managers, program implementers and frontline workers) and review of secondary data from the PMMVY Common Application Software and state PMMVY dashboard was done. Household survey covered 1290 women, and 70 in-depth interviews were held with eligible women, and PMMVY managerial and implementation staff. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS version 22.0, qualitative data was analysed thematically and triangulated with quantitative results for effective analysis and conclusion. The study received ethical approval from the Institutional Review Board of IIHMR Delhi.ResultsA strong political commitment with requisite systems and resources across all levels was observed. Coverage of PMMVY was less in urban areas (53.1% as compared to overall coverage of 95.9%). Knowledge of the scheme was high among both beneficiary and non-beneficiary women (97.8% beneficiary women and 94.2% non-beneficiary women). Utilization of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) services were significantly poorer among non-beneficiary women for four antenatal check-ups (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.55–0.99, p = 0.04), childbirth registration (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.18–0.45, p < 0.001) and child immunization (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.33–0.55, p < 0001). However, certain operational challenges were found related to beneficiary enrolment and use of PMMVY software, and a gap in intended and actual use of PMMVY incentive was observed (26.2% beneficiary women had spent the cash incentive on needs not related to nutrition or health).ConclusionDespite operational challenges, PMMVY has been effective in improving the utilization of health services like antenatal check-ups, childbirth registration and child immunization. The benefits of the scheme may be maximized by addressing those limitations in its delivery.