Training and Motivation of Grass-Root Level Workers in Leprosy are Critical to Accelerate Reaching Zero Leprosy Goals in India

Grass root workers are critical in the effectiveness of National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP). Personal interview surveys assessed their knowledge, attitudes, and perspectives in zero leprosy goals in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. Representative random samples of 81 medical officers (MOs), 77 allied health personnel and 124 ASHA workers were interviewed. One-third of MOs had no prior leprosy experience. They felt the delay in reporting was due to ignorance, misconceptions regarding leprosy and its treatment and stigma. They agreed that the contact examination was important but inadequately done. Only half the centres had an adequate supply of MDT and Prednisolone. Half of allied health personnel did not know the cardinal signs of leprosy, nearly one third did not know how to prevent stigma, disabilities, or delayed reporting. They stated that better training and supervision are essential to motivate them in case detection, contact follow-up and counselling. Focused intensive education and motivation are needed for the grass root level workers to be more efficient and committed to detect early cases of leprosy and counsel the public to overcome stigma encouraging early reporting and better adherence to MDT. Most grass root workers were enthusiastic and hopeful of eradicating leprosy if given better training and supervision.