The development of early childhood development screening process by network participation of Yothaka health promoting hospital

Abstract

This action research was aimed to develop the early childhood development screening process by network participation. This study adopted the Deming cycle for specially collecting qualitative data through observations and in-depth interviews with 95 individuals including public health officials, village health volunteers, community leaders, and network members. The data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive statistic.         

It was found that the development of early childhood development screening process was improved in two cycles by enhancing network capabilities, supporting materials and equipment, operational activities, and performance evaluations. The results revealed that the screening process increased the number of screened young children, and those with developmental abnormalities were appropriately referred for developmental stimulation. The involvement and strength of the network are identified as critical factors for the success of the development process.