Assessment of competencies in the prevention and control of chronic diseases and their influencing factors among health assistants in Bhutan: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: The morbidity and mortality of chronic diseases are increasing worldwide. The literature confirms that the prevention and control of chronic disease necessitates a robust primary health care system with a competent health care workforce. Studies on competencies in the prevention and control of chronic diseases and their determinants among health assistants (HAs) in Bhutan are scarce. This cross-sectional survey aimed to examine the level of competencies and investigate the factors influencing competencies in the prevention and control of chronic diseases among HAs. METHODS: The sample consisted of 330 HAs who were recruited through simple random sampling. A validated and reliable self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data through a web-based Google Form. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. RESULTS: The findings showed that the mean summed competency score was 191 (SD = 25.7). Approximately 96% of the participants perceived that they were competent in the prevention and control of chronic diseases. The multiple regression analysis indicated that work environment (β = 0.473), sex (β = 0.126), location of the health facility (β = − 0.114), and organizational support (β = 0.117) affected competencies in the prevention and control of chronic diseases by 31.4% with statistical significance (R(2) = 0.314) (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study suggested that improving the number of staff and availability of learning resources, considering training for both sexes, especially female primary health care workers, enhancing mentorship and supervision in rural areas, and establishing the recognition and encouragement of primary health care workers are needed.