Dhangarhi

Researchers are evaluating whether a one-day eye health orientation session for Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs) can increase the number of patients visiting Vision Centers in rural Nepal. The study focuses on FCHVs from Dipayal Silagadhi Municipality, where the orientation will be provided, compared to FCHVs from other municipalities without the orientation. This research aims to provide evidence on the effectiveness of such training in improving eye care service use and guiding future program expansion. The intervention includes a four-hour eye health orientation session delivered by a trained Ophthalmic Assistant using standardized materials. FCHVs will receive educational content about common eye diseases, early detection, prevention, and available services, along with referral slips, pamphlets, and posters. The study compares 58 FCHVs receiving the training in Dipayal Silagadhi to 91 FCHVs from neighboring municipalities who do not receive the orientation. Participants will be monitored for one year after the orientation. Data collected monthly includes referral slips completed by FCHVs and patient information such as age, gender, visual acuity, diagnosis, and travel distance. Pre- and post-training evaluations will measure FCHVs' knowledge improvements. Key outcomes include changes in patient visits, referral rates, and demographic breakdowns. Results will inform the value and potential scale-up of FCHV eye health orientation programs.