CHALLENGES AND EXPERIENCES OF LADY HEALTH WORKERS WORKING IN POLIO CAMPAIGNS IN DISTRICT NOWSHERA, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background: Lady Health Workers (LHWs) are recruited from the local rural communities under the National Programme for Family Planning. In addition to their assigned duties, they conduct door to door polio vaccination campaigns. However, for the last five years, amid to the security situation in the country Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Quetta and Karachi, remained the main highest -risk areas for them for polio campaigns.
Methods: We conducted this qualitative study in two union councils of District Nowshera by doing IDIs and FGDs with LHWs who performed their duties in polio campaigns. We used a field guide for interviewing. District coordinator of EPI and two Lady Health Supervisor (LHS) were also interviewed. Interviews were conducted and recorded, the audiotapes were transcribed and categorized on themes and sub themes. Content analysis was carried out. The data was presented in narrative form using summative and verbatim quotes.
Results: There was shortage and insufficient supply of medicines. The second most important issue the LHWs faced was the security. Delay in salary release, no incentives and promotion, community disrespect, administrative constraints, misperceptions regarding polio vaccines and work load were important challenges.
Conclusion: We conclude that the LHWs in both the union councils faced some challenges. Awareness through media is a good option but due to threats to the polio campaigns it is hard to work in these campaigns.