Community-Based Participatory Development of Suksala in Nan Province

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) study the current situation of access to public health services in remote areas of Nan Province, (2) develop a community-based participatory health-sala model, and (3) evaluate the outcomes of the developed health-sala operation using participatory action research (PAR). Data were collected from target groups in 6 areas through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis. The results of the research found that the health-sala operation using a community participatory approach could increase access to health services, reduce barriers related to distance, and promote community self-reliance in the long run. The results of the operation reflected the effectiveness of this approach, and key recommendations included policy support for integrating health-sala operation into the district health system.