Community Health Management Approaches for Vulnerable Groups During Floods: A Case Study of Nong Bo Subdistrict, Ubon Ratchathani Province.

Abstract

     This participatory action research aimed to investigate community contexts, flood situations and impacts, health management experiences, and causal factors affecting health behaviors among residents in Nong Bo Subdistrict, Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand. Data were collected through questionnaires, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews from three sample groups: 152 residents who completed questionnaires, 12 focus group participants, and 10 in-depth interview informants.
     The findings revealed that the area experiences recurrent flooding due to its location at the confluence of three rivers. Major limitations included healthcare personnel's lack of water rescue skills, insufficient life jackets, and access barriers when transportation routes were severed. While most residents demonstrated good risk perception and health management practices, misconceptions persisted regarding certain behaviors, such as playing in floodwater and not wearing life jackets during water transport. Although community members generally exhibited adequate health management capabilities, some vulnerable groups required additional support, particularly in emergency situations.