Abstract

Introduction: Community-based monitoring (CBM) is an emerging field in scientific research. While humans have always interacted with and observed their environment, structured community involvement in monitoring activities has only recently been integrated into formal research and practice. Aim of Community-Based Monitoring: The primary goal of CBM is to enhance and solidify community participation in health service planning, accountability, and action mechanisms. Specifically, under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), CBM aims to improve access to and utilization of health services. Relevance/Need of the Topic: According to World Health Organization (WHO) statistics and other sources, chronic diseases and psychological stress contribute to 80% of elderly deaths. Recent advancements in wireless communication and Smartphone technology offer significant potential to enhance health monitoring services and address these issues more effectively. Current Status of Community-Based Monitoring: The Community Based Planning and Monitoring Programme (CBPM) has been implemented in Bihar since May 2011 by the State Health Society. Key factors contributing to its success include strong civil society engagement, active involvement of public health personnel and community members, broad geographic representation, and effective monitoring committees. Existing Problems/Shortcomings: Despite the acceptance of CBM at the state level, there is often resistance or limited acceptance at the district and lower levels within many states’ health departments. This resistance can hinder the effectiveness and reach of CBM initiatives. Strategies to Improve the Situation: To address these challenges, it is crucial for the government to support research that enhances community-monitoring systems. Government leadership is needed to help states and communities identify and address key health monitoring needs. Empowering communities with knowledge and awareness will enable them to better monitor health systems and support local health care initiatives. Conclusion: Integrating Community Health Monitoring into national health programs is essential. It ensures systematic reporting, accountability, and efficient resource allocation. Additionally, it provides valuable data for decision-making, promotes continuous improvement, and fosters a culture of learning within the health sector.

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