African Architectural History Review (Humanities focus) | 16 August 2005
Access and Utilization Evaluation of Traditional Herbal Medicine Programmes Among Women in Northern Ethiopia: A Study on Community Health Worker Performance,
F, a, s, i, l, T, e, k, d, e, l, a, ,, G, i, r, m, a, A, b, e, r, a, G, u, t, a, ,, Y, i, l, m, a, A, b, r, a, h, a, Y, i, m, n, o, r, i, c, h
Abstract
Traditional herbal medicine programmes have been implemented in various regions of northern Ethiopia to address healthcare needs, particularly for women who may face barriers accessing modern health services. A qualitative research design was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with CHWs and focus group discussions with beneficiaries. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that while 85% of participants reported easy access to herbal medicine, only 40% used the services regularly due to cost and effectiveness concerns. CHW performance in promoting traditional herbal medicine was generally positive but hindered by financial constraints and skepticism about efficacy compared to modern healthcare. Investment should be made in training CHWs on effective communication and marketing strategies, alongside reducing costs for herbal medicines to improve utilization rates.