The Development of Model for Community Health Management in Samut Sakhon Province

Abstract

Objective: This research aims to develop a model for community health management for Samut Sakhon Province.

Methods: The survey research covered 290 communities of Samut Sakhon Province, utilizing assessment forms for health management community. Samples were 8–10 purposively selected health volunteers for each community. Data analysis utilized frequency distribution and percentage. The participatory action research employed qualitative approach, covering 3 sub-districts from 3 districts of Samut Sakhon Province, of which standard criteria for health management community were not met. The research was conducted through the holding of a workshop to provide knowledge, seminar for exchanging experiences, and brainstorm. Samples, 6–8 purposively selected for each sub-district, included persons having direct roles and responsibilities in the community health development. Content analysis in accordance with the fixed issues was utilized.

Results: The survey research showed that, 41.03 % of the villages met standard criteria for health management community. Most of communities 98.97 % met the standard criteria in section 3. Also, from participatory action research, all sub-districts operated health management by planning, provided funds support, supervised and controlled, with followed up and assessed. Activities were mostly the same and dominated by government, focusing on disease prevention. For an operation, groups and organizations lagged coordination, not connected as networks nor realized their roles and duties. Public participation was only through persuasion or request rather than actually participating.

Conclusion: The model for Samut Sakhon Health Management developed was “3 Organizations (Sub-district Administrative Organization [SAO], Health Centre [HC], and Public Health Volunteer/Civil Organization [PHV/CO]) join hands under the concept of people participation for development” by specifying roles for all parties differently: SAO is a supporter, HC is an adviser, and (PHV/CO is a performer.