The effectiveness of self-care support groups in the prevention and management of ulcer: an evaluation study in Ethiopia

A sixteen-item pre-tested structured interview was used to assess the attitude of self-care group members (N=61), involved in the self-care programme of All Africa Leprosy, Tuberculosis and Rehabilitation Training Centre (ALERT). An open-endid item for assessing the opinion of health personnel working in leprosy affiliated institutions and case-studies, was also used to collect data. Results showed that beneficiaries have a positive attitude towards the various aspects of the programme. Health personnel also favoured the programme in many ways, despite their disappointment regarding the organisation and management of the programme. Analysis of coping efforts employed by the self-care group, revealed the importance of behavioural modification techniques, followed by the use of material sources as important strategies in the area of prevention of disability. Recommendations for future research and intervention are made, based on results obtained.