Abstract
Introduction
The MAMaZ programme in Zambia uses volunteer community health workers to improve transport and social mobilisation for maternal health in rural communities. The programme ends in 2013, continued volunteer activity is needed for the impact of the programme to be realised. Identifying factors that influence volunteer motivation and retention is important to reduce volunteer attrition and increase sustainability.
Methods
This cross-sectional qualitative research study involved 19 one-to-one interviews with programme volunteers in 3 districts. One focus group interview took place with the district programme officers. The data was analysed using thematic content analysis.
Findings
Wanting to save the lives of women, provision of identity through T- shirts, and seeing the impact of their work were some of the motivational factors mentioned. Large catchment areas, lack of monetary incentives, and lack of appropriate equipment were challenges identified by volunteers.
Discussion
Recommendations for the programme include: provision of appropriate equipment for volunteers, increased efforts to provide skilled birth attendants to health facilities, and training of more community health workers.
The MAMaZ programme in Zambia uses volunteer community health workers to improve transport and social mobilisation for maternal health in rural communities. The programme ends in 2013, continued volunteer activity is needed for the impact of the programme to be realised. Identifying factors that influence volunteer motivation and retention is important to reduce volunteer attrition and increase sustainability.
Methods
This cross-sectional qualitative research study involved 19 one-to-one interviews with programme volunteers in 3 districts. One focus group interview took place with the district programme officers. The data was analysed using thematic content analysis.
Findings
Wanting to save the lives of women, provision of identity through T- shirts, and seeing the impact of their work were some of the motivational factors mentioned. Large catchment areas, lack of monetary incentives, and lack of appropriate equipment were challenges identified by volunteers.
Discussion
Recommendations for the programme include: provision of appropriate equipment for volunteers, increased efforts to provide skilled birth attendants to health facilities, and training of more community health workers.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages | 59 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 13 Apr 2013 |
| Event | British Conference of Undergraduate Research - University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom Duration: 13 Apr 2013 → 14 Apr 2013 http://176.32.230.17/teabags.co.uk/bcur/ |
Conference
| Conference | British Conference of Undergraduate Research |
|---|---|
| Country/Territory | United Kingdom |
| City | Plymouth |
| Period | 13/04/13 → 14/04/13 |
| Internet address |
Keywords
- Qualitative research
- Maternal health
- Access to Health Care
