CASE STUDY 1: Needs Assessment for a Community Health Initiative in Rural Cameroon

Client Background

A global health-focused nonprofit organization approached WS Market Research Firm to conduct a comprehensive Needs Assessment for a new community health initiative targeting rural Cameroon.
The program aimed to improve:

• Access to primary healthcare

• Maternal and child health outcomes

• Health education

• Immunization awareness

Before launching, the organization needed accurate, ground-level data to ensure the program addressed real community needs.

Objectives of the study

Objectives of the Study

The needs assessment sought to answer critical questions:

1. What are the most pressing health challenges faced by rural households?

2. How accessible are primary healthcare facilities in remote communities?

3. Do families have adequate knowledge of preventive health, immunization, and hygiene?

4. What logistical barriers (distance, cost, transport, cultural norms) prevent families from seeking care?

5. What types of health interventions would have the greatest impact?

Methodology

1. Field Surveys (1,000 respondents)

Our team conducted in-person surveys across 15 rural communities in:

• East Region

• North West Region

• South Region

Respondents included:

• Mothers

• Fathers

• Village elders

• Youth

• Community health workers

2. Focus Group Discussions (9 sessions)

Focused on understanding:

• Perceptions of illness

• Decision-making around treatment

• Cultural practices affecting health

• Attitudes toward hospitals and immunization

3. Key Informant Interviews

With:

• Chiefs and traditional rulers

• Nurses and midwives

• Local council health officers

• Teachers and youth leaders

4. Health Facility Assessment

We evaluated:

• Clinic staffing

• Equipment availability

• Drug stock levels

• Distance from communities

• Emergency referral systems

Key Findings

1. Limited Access to Healthcare

• 60% of respondents live more than 5 km from the nearest health facility.

• Many rely on motorbike transport, which is costly or unavailable at night.

• Only 37% visit clinics for non-emergency services.

2. Maternal and Child Health Challenges

• Low antenatal care attendance

• High dependence on traditional birth attendants

• Low awareness of neonatal danger signs

Young mothers expressed a need for education sessions on childbirth and infant care.

3. Health Education Gaps

• Only 48% understood the importance of complete immunization.

• Myths around vaccines persist in several communities.

• Poor hygiene practices contribute to diarrheal diseases.

4. Economic Barriers

• Consultation fees and medication costs discourage clinic visits.

• Households often delay treatment due to budget constraints.

5. Community Priorities Identified

Residents expressed strong need for:

• Mobile outreach clinics

• Health education programs

• More trained nurses

• Affordable medication

• Child vaccination campaigns