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BMC Health Services Research
Published in: BMC Health Services Research 1/2022

Open Access 01-12-2022 | Care | Research

Assessment of competencies in the prevention and control of chronic diseases and their influencing factors among health assistants in Bhutan: a cross-sectional study

Authors: Tshewang Lhadon, Nithra Kitreerawutiwong

Published in: BMC Health Services Research | Issue 1/2022

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Abstract

Background

The morbidity and mortality of chronic diseases are increasing worldwide. The literature confirms that the prevention and control of chronic disease necessitates a robust primary health care system with a competent health care workforce. Studies on competencies in the prevention and control of chronic diseases and their determinants among health assistants (HAs) in Bhutan are scarce. This cross-sectional survey aimed to examine the level of competencies and investigate the factors influencing competencies in the prevention and control of chronic diseases among HAs.

Methods

The sample consisted of 330 HAs who were recruited through simple random sampling. A validated and reliable self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data through a web-based Google Form. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis.

Results

The findings showed that the mean summed competency score was 191 (SD = 25.7). Approximately 96% of the participants perceived that they were competent in the prevention and control of chronic diseases. The multiple regression analysis indicated that work environment (β = 0.473), sex (β = 0.126), location of the health facility (β = − 0.114), and organizational support (β = 0.117) affected competencies in the prevention and control of chronic diseases by 31.4% with statistical significance (R2 = 0.314) (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study suggested that improving the number of staff and availability of learning resources, considering training for both sexes, especially female primary health care workers, enhancing mentorship and supervision in rural areas, and establishing the recognition and encouragement of primary health care workers are needed.
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Metadata
Title
Assessment of competencies in the prevention and control of chronic diseases and their influencing factors among health assistants in Bhutan: a cross-sectional study
Authors
Tshewang Lhadon
Nithra Kitreerawutiwong
Publication date
01-12-2022
Publisher
BioMed Central
Keyword
Care
Published in
BMC Health Services Research / Issue 1/2022
Electronic ISSN: 1472-6963
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-022-08747-z

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