EHA

This project works to reduce the levels of tuberculosis in five blocks of Palamu district by creating awareness, reducing stigma and encouraging people to access the healthcare they need.  It focuses on the needs of the poor and marginalised tribal communities, covering a population of approximately 500,000 people. The project plans to do this by showing IEC films in the villages during the evening when people are not working.  Most of the local people are subsistence farmers, 60% of whom are illiterate, so showing films has proven to be the most effective way to communicate. The films give information blended with the local film songs and encourage people to access diagnostic and treatment services.

The films will be shown through IEC mobile van. IEC films will also be screened in the 'Scheduled Tribe' schools located in remote places.  These are vital in raising awareness amongst the class teachers, sensitising them to symptoms of local endemic diseases, healthcare facilities available and healthcare rights so that they can disseminate the information to students.

Over the last year, the project completed a KAP survey in the five blocks. The survey undertook communication needs assessment based on the knowledge level, behavior patterns and habits (KAP) of the target audience, i.e. Beneficiaries/ Patients. The baseline will be followed by a mid-term and end term evaluation to measure the effectiveness of the intervention.