Level of Acceptability of Roles and Performance of Barangay Health Workers in the Delivery of Basic Health Services

Abstract

The Philippines experienced "brain drain" in 1987 due to the exodus of health workers which led to the training of BHs to fill the gap. So, this study determined the level of acceptability of the roles and performance of barangay health workers in the delivery of basic health services. This study was conducted with 1,332 respondents (245 BHs and 1,087 residents) in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur in 2010. The researcher used a questionnaire-checklist to gather data. The descriptive correlational method was used in this study. The BHs level ofacceptability of their roles and performance was high. The BHWs level of acceptability of their roles was significantly influenced by their socio-demographic profile except on their role as a teacher; but their level ofperformance was not significantly influenced by their socio-demographic profile. There was a significant relationship between the BHWs' level of acceptability of their roles and their level of performance. Based on the findings, the recommendations are drawn: the BHWs should be encouraged to attend trainings on basic health care services; a similar study be conducted but with wider scope; and the result would serve as a basis for future programs of the Department of Health (DOH) on BHWs' welfare.