A study of interface of ASHA with the community and the service providers in Eastern Uttar Pradesh.
OBJECTIVE
To study the functioning of ASHA in the community with special focus on interface with community and service providers in Eastern Uttar Pradesh.


METHODS
This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in two blocks each in Gorakhpur and Maharajganj districts of Eastern Uttar Pradesh during October-December 2008. A multi stage sampling design was used. The study subjects included 120 mothers, 60 ASHAs, 20 AWWs, 20 ANMs, 4 Medical Officers in charge, 2 Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) and PRI members. Data was collected through pre-designed and pre-tested structured interview schedules and through checklists for FGDs.


RESULTS
Most (95%) of the ASHAs were 8th Pass or above. The residential status and marital status was as per guidelines. Induction training was received by all. Major motivating factor for ASHAs were either money (81.66%) or getting a government job (66.66%). Most of the ASHAs (86.66%) got the support from their supervisors in solving their problem and majority of them (95%) were satisfied with their supervisors. All the ASHAs have been accepted very well in the community and are acting a good link between community and health providers. The faith and confidence of community on ASHAs are reflected by the demand of additional jobs like help in getting widow pension and ration card etc.


CONCLUSIONS
Though accepted by the community, ASHAs need regular training, support and cooperation from other functionaries.
Srivastava
D K
DK
Community Medicine, BRD Medical College, Gorakhpur.
Prakash
S
S
Adhish
V
V
Nair
K S
KS
Gupta
S
S
Nandan
Deoki
D
D000328:Adult; D003153:Community Health Services; D003150:Community Health Workers / Q000523:psychology*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D006078:Government Programs; D006801:Humans; D007194:India; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D019035:Rural Health Services; D012923:Social Class; D055815:Young Adult