A Cross-Sectional Study on the Competency in Delivering Health Services among Barangay Health Workers in Metro Vigan: Basis for the Conduct of a Competency-based Training Program

This study assessed the proficiency of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) in providing fundamental health services in Metro Vigan, Philippines. Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) are essential to the nation's primary healthcare framework, delivering services related to health education, illness prevention, maternity and child health, and health surveillance. Notwithstanding their essential function, apprehensions regarding their proficiency arise from insufficient training and resources. This study evaluates BHW competencies in five fundamental domains: health promotion, health education, station maintenance, health status monitoring, and record-keeping. It also examines the correlation between the demographic parameters of BHWs, including age, education, and marital status, and their degrees of competency. Furthermore, this study proposes a comprehensive competency-based training program for BHWs in Metro Vigan to sustain and improve their competency in delivering health services.

A descriptive-correlational study approach was utilized, employing a questionnaire derived from the TESDA Self-Assessment Guide for Barangay Health Services.

The findings reveal that although BHWs typically exhibit considerable proficiency, their civil status influences their performance, especially in health monitoring and record-keeping.

Training programs were deemed inadequate, exhibiting deficiencies in cultural awareness and communication abilities.

The report recommends establishing a TESDA certification program, creating targeted training initiatives, and improving feedback systems to enhance the performance of BHWs and ensure the sustainability of primary health services. This study supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals 3, 8, and 16 by encouraging skill-based programs to improve how well BHWs perform their important roles.