Perceptions and Experiences of a Multi-domain Preventive Health Programme: a Qualitative Study Informing Future Community-based Health Interventions in Singapore

Overview

Journal BMC Public Health

Publisher Biomed Central

Specialty Public Health

Date 2024 Oct 25

PMID 39448998

Authors

Jesslyn Hwei Sing Chong

Jia Yi Chee

Zack Zhong Sheng Goh

Hee Hoon Lee

Thong Gan Chee

Esther Xi Xiang Tan

Phillip Phan

Adrian Ujin Yap

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Despite global popularity, Community-based Health Intervention (CBHI) programmes have yet to be fully incorporated into Singapore's public healthcare systems, with most initiatives focusing on specific diseases. This qualitative study aimed to evaluate older adults' perceptions of the "Get Well, Live Well" multi-domain preventive health programme, explore the effectiveness of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in promoting health literacy and modifying health behaviours, and examine participants' experiences in the CHW-delivered CBHI programme.

Methods: Purposeful sampling was used to recruit study subjects from participants in the "Get Well, Live Well" programme until data saturation was achieved. In-depth, semi-structured, one-to-one telephone interviews were conducted in English or Chinese with participants aged ≥ 40 years. Audio recordings were translated into English as needed and transcribed in full. The collected data were anonymised, and thematic analysis was performed by three trained evaluators using a structured process.

Results: The final study sample included 19 subjects (median age of 64 years; 84% women; and 95% Chinese). Three key themes emerged regarding the programme's value, interactions with CHW, also known as Care Connectors, and their facilitation of health services/behaviours. Participants acknowledged that the "Get Well, Live Well" programme provided physical/emotional support, improved health literacy, and enhanced social interaction. The programme's effectiveness may depend on Care Connector's personal qualities, service quality beyond expectation, connection with participants, and their proactive and authoritative roles in facilitating health services/behaviours.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that future Community-based Health Interventions could benefit from deploying CHWs with strong people skills to enhance the programme's success.

Citing Articles

Impact of a Community-Based Health Intervention on Health Knowledge, Lifestyle Goals, Dietary Practices, and Physical Activity in Older Adults: A Multisite Cohort Study.

Lim S, Chong J, Chee J, Lew C, Lee H, Chua L Healthcare (Basel). 2025; 12(24.

PMID: 39766015 PMC: 11728349. DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12242588.

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