EXPLORING THE CHALLENGES FACED BY ACCREDITED SOCIAL HEALTH ACTIVIST WORKERS WHILE DELIVERING HEALTHCARE SERVICES IN A TRIBAL DISTRICT OF MAHARASHTRA: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Dr Suchitra Sharma, Dr Anjali Mall, Dr Geeta Pardeshi

Abstract


Background: The National Health Mission (NHM) is based on ASHAs. They raise awareness of health-related issues
and encourage better use as well as community participation in local health planning. This study aims to ascertain the
challenges faced and strategies adopted by ASHA workers to overcome challenges encountered when delivering healthcare services.
Methodology: 33 members of ASHA from the ve health and wellness centers in the Palghar block participated in this qualitative study. An audio
recorder and a semi-structured in-depth interview questionnaire were used to gather data. The subjects gave written informed consent. Data was
analyzed thematically. Result: The majority of ASHAs reported that their work enhanced their social connections and built their condence. The
majority of ASHAs say their pay is inadequate and they are dissatised with their performance-based incentives. Along with managing resources
like Xerox machines and ambulances, ASHAs also have to deal with problems like overwork and limited access to transportation.Conclusion:
The majority of the ASHA workers encountered physical, nancial, emotional social, technological, and occupational environment-related
challenges.


Keywords


Accredited Social Health Activist, Challenges faced, Strategies, Palghar.

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