Assessment of Functionality of ASHAs with Respect to Health Services in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, 2016

Abstract

Introduction: National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) since 2013 adopted the strategies of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent health (RMNCH+A), under which Accredited So- cial Health Activist (ASHA) programme has emerged as the larg- est community health programme in the world.

Methods: A cross sectional community based study was con- ducted to assess the functionality of ASHA in providing health services in rural areas of Bharatpur, Rajasthan and to check her awareness on job responsibilities, provisions available. It was con- ducted by randomly selecting one PHC from each block. All ASHA of that PHC were interviewed using a Questionnaire given in the book “Handbook for ASHA facilitator”.

Results: In Bharatpur district 96% ASHAs were found functional on 6/10 tasks as per criteria lay down by ministry. 7.6% ASHA of Kaman & 8.3 % ASHA of Bhusawar, 7.2% of Nagar, 6.2% of Kum- her block were non-functional. Block Bayana, Deeg and Nadbai were better in terms of ASHA functionality.

Conclusion: Specific strategy needs to be drawn to train the non- functional ASHAs to manage childhood illness. For effective con- duction of VHSNC, the refreshment cost of Rs. 70 /- for 15 mem- bers to be revised. Robust supervisory system should be adhered  to ensure 100% nutritional counseling during home visits.