Using nominal group technique to develop a training model for community health workers in physical rehabilitation services: in-sights and perspectives from stakeholders

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to identify the training needs of community health workers in physical rehabilitation and propose a suitable training model.

Methods:

Key stakeholders in community physical rehabilitation were invited to participate in a workshop using purposive sampling. The study employed the nominal group technique for data collection, which consisted of two phases. Phase 1 focused on identifying training needs for community health workers delivering physical rehabilitation services, while Phase 2 aimed to ascertain the appropriate training model for community health workers in physical rehabilitation services. Participants used a Likert scale of 1–4 to rank the training needs and the training model, and an overall ranking score was calculated for each. The participants were provided with the results of the ranking exercise for their feedback. The qualitative data was analysed thematically.

Results: The participants emphasised the importance of detailed patient assessment and case management for community health workers rendering physical rehabilitation services. In addition, the participants suggested that a decentralised approach to training be adopted, with the ability to read and write suggested as the entry requirement. The training could take three months and use a combination of physical and online instruction. A theoretical and practical summative evaluation and certificate will be issued at the end of training.

Conclusion: Standardising training for community health workers who deliver physical rehabilitation services could be implemented in Zambia, which would enhance access to and the quality of physical rehabilitation services at the community level.

Implications: Community health workers offer a solution to the ongoing human resources for health crisis in resource-constrained settings and can support physical rehabilitation services. Training Community health workers in physical rehabilitation could help fill the human resource gap and improve service distribution, especially in resource-constrained settings.