RESULTS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MODEL TO PROMOTE THE PARTICIPATION OF VILLAGE HEALTH VOLUNTEERS (VHVS) IN THE PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF DENGUE FEVER IN PHICHIT PROVINCE

Abstract

This Participatory Action Research (PAR) aimed to develop a model for enhancing the participation of Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) in the prevention and control of dengue fever. The study population comprised 411 VHVs obtained through systematic sampling across all districts, 28 network partners selected via purposive sampling, and VHVs from two experimental sub-districts. Data collection instruments included a knowledge assessment (reliability = 0.79), questionnaires (reliability = 0.85 - 0.92), and focus group discussions. Statistical analysis was performed using Stepwise Multiple Regression, Paired t-test, and Content Analysis. The results indicated that overall VHV participation was at a moderate level. Key factors significantly predicting participation were social support, motivation, resource adequacy, income, attitude, attendance at training or meetings, and village committee membership ($R^2_{adj} = 0.436$). The developed participation promotion model consists of eight strategic components: 1) Establishing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to foster collaboration; 2) Declaring the initiative as a priority policy for Phichit Province; 3) Enhancing VHV capacity; 4) Providing appropriate social support; 5) Generating motivation; 6) Developing effective communication channels; 7) Coordinating multisectoral cooperation; and8) facilitating platforms for knowledge exchange. Post-development results showed that mean scores were significantly higher than pre-development levels at the 0.05 significance level. Recommendations: Relevant agencies should prioritize policies that strengthen VHV engagement and foster multisectoral synergy. The model should be disseminated to district and sub-district levels for implementation, with adaptations to suit local contexts. Furthermore, sustained support for strategic plans and projects is essential to ensure effective dengue fever prevention and control across Phichit Province.