Model of Empowerment Integration with AIC Technique for Taking Care of Chronic Psychology Patients. A Case Study: Kok-Kor Sub-district, Muang District, Mahasarakham Province

Abstract

The objective of this study was to develop an empowerment model for chronic psychiatric patients as well as families and communities together with the use of AIC (Appreciation-Influence- Control) technique for taking care of the patients in the community. It was designed as an action research conducted during February – September 2011 in Kok-Kor sub-district, Muang district, Mahasarakham province. The study populations were 10 psychiatric patients, 15 household members or caregivers, 30 community leaders or community influencers, and 5 local health officers. The study composed of 3 phases. Phase 1 was the preparation stage that included quick assessment for baseline information by utilizing in-depth interviews, observations, and group processes. Phase 2 was then stage of intervention action, follow up and assistance by using empowerment integration with AIC technique approaches. Phase 3 was information analysis on power perception of the community and compared the power perception before and after the intervention for eight-week duration. The results showed that family and community empowerment with AIC intervention for taking care of chronic psychology patients helped them to perceive their illness and raised awareness on importance for having appropriate behaviors. Families and community had more understanding, caring and giving much attention to the patients. Capacity building for patient care was enhanced through study visits to near-by provinces. They also built a center to assist on career training and developed community referral system to help patients on regular medication. Transportation and accommodation were supported by local administrative office. The evaluation of power perception among the study group revealed that the scores before the study were at intermediate level with the mean of 79 (out of the full score of 120); and after the 6thempowerment procedure, the mean score became 98. At the completion of the 8-week process, the power perception scores increased to a high level, with the mean score of 107. Thus, the proposed model which incorporated community participation and provision of psychiatric care based on AIC technique should be considered as an effective intervention for providing care for chronic psychiatric patients in the communities.