Family and self-help education in isolated rural communities.

Abstract

Family and self-help education courses were developed to promote better personal health through more appropriate utilization of health services in underserved rural areas. Instructional target areas were health problems of young children and the elderly and emergency situations. Objectives and evaluation criteria were formulated after consultation with representatives of participating communities and expert advisors. Community advisory committees were identified or created to supervise program development and implementation. Local instructors were utilized and developed specific course content. An evaluation of one course showed that knowledge and decision-making skills significantly improved for participants.