The itinerant health worker: an experiment in rural health care delivery
Isely, R.B.; Sanwogou, L.L.
African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences 12(1): 47-55
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0309-3913 PMID: 6314792 Document Number: 215080
A model of rural healthcare delivery employing itinerant health workers has been presented. Itinerant workers, whose role is principally community organization and technical assistance to village health committees in matters of environment health and endemic disease control, are suggested as an interim measure for strengthening village social structures in preparation for the eventual emergence of village health workers. The effectiveness of the model is reflected in the multiplier effect on the number of organized villages, the diffusion of the model to other parts of the Cameroon, and the impact on policymaking. The efficiency of the model, however, may be limited by such questions as budget for transport and per diem expenses and more seriously, the limitation on training facilities. A deliberate allocation of budget to overcome these obstacles is suggested as important to bringing the advantages of the model to the entire rural population. (author's modified)