Community Based Health Services and Adoption of Reproductive Health Program in Kenya: a Case of Mumias Central Division, Kakamega County.

Abstract

In low-income countries with high fertility rates and a significant unmet need for FP, community-based health service provision has proven to be an effective approach for family planning interventions. Community Health Workers (CHWs) played a crucial role in delivering primary healthcare services and addressing the gap between limited medical professionals and the community. This approach was instrumental in improving access to reproductive health services and promoting overall healthcare outcomes in low-resource settings. This study aimed to investigate community-based health services and the adoption of reproductive health programs in Mumias central division, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study included establishing the extent to which family planning information, education, and communication influenced the adoption of reproductive health programs, determining how contraceptive counseling and provision of contraceptives influenced the adoption of reproductive health programs, assessing how basic screening of sexually transmitted infections influenced the adoption of reproductive health programs, and evaluating how newborn care and breastfeeding support influenced the adoption of reproductive health programs. The Health Belief Model (HBM) was adopted as the theoretical framework for the study. The target population of 19,113 people consisted of healthcare service providers, individuals of reproductive age, including sexually active men and women, pregnant women, mothers of young infants, and those who had sought reproductive health services. The study employed a multistage sampling technique to select participants. Households were selected within each sub-location using systematic random sampling. All eligible individuals residing in the selected households were invited to participate in the study. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving interviews and questionnaires with healthcare providers and community members. The sample size was 377 participants, calculated using the Krejcie and Morgan table. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while

qualitative data was subjected to thematic analysis. The survey conducted in Mumias Central Division, Kenya, revealed a highly positive and receptive community attitude towards family planning services and education. The majority of respondents demonstrated awareness of the availability and accessibility of family planning information and services, as well as a strong willingness to utilize family planning methods for improved reproductive health. The community's enthusiasm for frequent education campaigns showcased their commitment to continuous learning and engagement with reproductive health programs, creating a supportive environment for their adoption. Similarly, the survey results indicated a favorable reception towards contraceptive counseling and the provision of contraceptives, emphasizing the community's understanding of their benefits and the importance of reproductive health. Furthermore, the findings highlighted a significant positive association between basic screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and the adoption of the reproductive health program, underlining the critical role of early detection and prevention in promoting reproductive health.