Description of a telephone and Internet-based intervention to improve community responses to COVID-19 spread

Abstract

Background This paper describes the process and results of a health promotion intervention to engage lay communities using telephone and online communication, to improve their current responses to the spread of COVID-19. Methods An intervention was conducted from March to July 2020 in three districts of Sri Lanka. Seven ‘trigger’ stories were shared through telephone or online communication to stimulate brainstorming and to engage selected community members. Determinants were identified and prioritised through discussions, and potentially beneficial actions were implemented as agreed by participants. The process was monitored, outcomes were evaluated monthly, and activities were modified according to ongoing observations. Results A total of 638 families (both adults and children) involved actively in implementing useful actions and reported an increased sense of personal control. Potential risk groups, best feasible community safety precautions and preparation to face challenges in the event of infection reaching their community were identified during brainstorming sessions with community mobilisers. A majority reported that they felt more confident, united and less anxious about handling potential risks and problems. Other beneficial outcomes include lifestyle changes leading to healthier behaviours and a sense of greater control over the conditions that govern their lives. Conclusion Use of telephone and online communication was effective in generating desirable community changes.

Post-abortion needs-based education via the WeChat platform to lessen fear and encourage effective contraception: a post-abortion care service intervention-controlled trial

“…Many studies have shown that health education, psychological care, and humanistic care in the form of telephone communication and text messages after abortion can improve the physical and mental health of women after the intended abortion [ 12 – 15 ], and contraception provides a series of other potential benefits in addition to health, and some studies believe that it is necessary to promote various forms of health education models. Studies have indicated many benefits and possibilities of using mobile communication education methods for continuity services [ 16 – 18 ].…”