A mixed-method study on rural community’s response to public health emergency in the Philippines: Lessons from the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic
https://doi.org/10.47895/amp.vi0.6169
- Author:
Charlie C. Falguera
1
;
Filedito D. Tandinco
2
;
Charlie E. Labarda
2
;
Adelaida G. Rosaldo
2
;
Carmen N. Firmo
3
;
Robelita N. Varona
4
Author Information
1. Midwifery Department, School of Health Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Palo, Leyte, Philippines
2. Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Palo, Leyte, Philippines
3. Nursing Department, School of Health Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Palo, Leyte, Philippines
4. Extension Campus in South Cotabato, School of Health Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Koronadal City, South Cotabato, Philippines
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH:
Community Participation;
Community Health Services;
COVID-19;
Rural Health;
Philippines
- From:
Acta Medica Philippina
2024;58(2):16-26
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:People from rural communities are not spared from COVID-19. But implementing preventive measures and strategies can be made to control the spread.
Objective:This study was conducted to describe the epidemiologic situation and the healthcare capacity of the
locality, determine the responses and strategies implemented in the control of COVID-19, and explain the activities performed in relation to the epidemiologic situation in Tarangnan, Samar – a low-income class municipality in the Philippines.
Methods:A mixed qualitative–quantitative design was employed in this study. Descriptive documentary research design through review of records from March to October 2020 was utilized. For the qualitative context, a case study design was employed whereby focus group discussions and key informant interviews using open-ended questions were performed.
Results:A total of 66 individuals were recorded as having COVID-19 in the municipality from March to October
2020. The first recorded confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Eastern Visayas were two adults in Tarangnan, Samar, in
March 2020. Since then, additional confirmed cases have been recorded every month, but confirmed COVID-19
dramatically reduced from August to October 2020. Qualitative analysis revealed stringent COVID-19 preventive
measures reflected in the confirmed case numbers. The tailwinds of the COVID-19 response include: the SARS
pandemic precedent, coordination and communication, outpouring of support from other government and nongovernment partners, and innovative community-based approaches. The headwinds of COVID-19 response were challenges in imposing minimum health and safety precautions, stigmatization, and discrimination.
Conclusion:Even if challenges have arisen in implementing measures against the spread of the disease, good outcomes have been achieved through persistent good practice, positive modifications, and community-based innovations.
- Full text:6169-Article Text-96688-2-10-20240208.pdf
