Background of the Study
Community Health Workers (CHWs) have become vital in addressing healthcare gaps, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare facilities is limited. In Sokoto State, where healthcare facilities are concentrated in urban areas, CHWs play an essential role in promoting maternal health by increasing awareness about the importance of antenatal care (ANC) and encouraging pregnant women to seek regular medical check-ups. These workers often serve as liaisons between healthcare providers and the community, offering education, distributing health materials, and guiding women on ANC practices. Despite their crucial role, the effectiveness of CHWs in improving antenatal care uptake has not been comprehensively studied in Sokoto State (Bala et al., 2023). This study aims to examine how CHWs contribute to promoting ANC visits and improving maternal health outcomes in the state.
Statement of the Problem
In Sokoto State, maternal health remains a concern, as many pregnant women do not attend ANC regularly. This lack of ANC attendance is linked to various factors, such as cultural beliefs, distance to healthcare facilities, and low levels of health literacy. CHWs have the potential to bridge these gaps by providing outreach and education in communities, yet their actual impact on ANC attendance in Sokoto State remains unclear. Understanding how CHWs contribute to improving ANC visits is critical for optimizing their role in maternal health programs.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the role of Community Health Workers in promoting antenatal care visits in Sokoto State.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of CHWs in educating pregnant women about the benefits of ANC in Sokoto State.
3. To identify the challenges faced by CHWs in promoting ANC visits in Sokoto State.
Research Questions
1. How do Community Health Workers contribute to promoting antenatal care visits in Sokoto State?
2. What methods do Community Health Workers use to educate pregnant women about antenatal care in Sokoto State?
3. What challenges do Community Health Workers face in encouraging antenatal care uptake in Sokoto State?
Research Hypotheses
1. Community Health Workers significantly increase antenatal care attendance among pregnant women in Sokoto State.
2. Pregnant women who receive education from Community Health Workers are more likely to attend regular antenatal care visits in Sokoto State.
3. Barriers such as inadequate training and resources hinder the effectiveness of Community Health Workers in promoting ANC visits in Sokoto State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the role of CHWs in rural and semi-urban areas of Sokoto State. Limitations may include the variability in training and resources provided to CHWs across different regions, as well as cultural factors influencing ANC uptake.
Definitions of Terms
• Community Health Workers (CHWs): Trained members of the community who are employed to deliver basic health services and education, particularly in underserved areas.
• Antenatal Care (ANC): Medical care and guidance provided to pregnant women to ensure maternal and fetal health, including regular check-ups, screenings, and education.
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