Factors Affecting of Disease-Free Standards of Child Care Centers in Health Area 1

Abstract

This mixed-method research aimed to evaluate the Disease-Free Childcare Center standards and the factors related to the Disease-Free Childcare Center standards in Health Region 1. The quantitative component involved 347 childcare teachers responsible for disease-free childcare centers under local administrative organizations, selected through quota sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire developed based on the literature and previous studies, and the 2013 standard evaluation form issued by the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for data analysis. The qualitative component included purposively selected childcare teachers from centers that either met or failed to meet the evaluation criteria. Data were collected through structured in-depth interviews and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. The results indicated that 298 centers (85.9%) met the Disease-Free Childcare Center standards. Factors significantly related to successful evaluation outcomes included prior training in communicable diseases, duration of center operation, and previous participation in standard evaluations (p < 0.001). Additional significant factors included the adequacy of disease prevention equipment, availability of health education materials, and consistent budgetary support (p < 0.05). The main motivations for operating disease-free childcare centers included preventing disease outbreaks, promoting child health, and fostering community and parental trust in the centers’ ability to care for their children. Communication challenges remained with some parents who were uncooperative regarding keeping children at home when necessary. Key success factors included proactive administrators, supportive policies, adequate resources, and active collaboration from education committees and parents. Based on the findings, the study recommends the implementation of ongoing annual training in communicable disease prevention for childcare personnel, along with the provision of sufficient preventive equipment, educational resources, and sustained financial support from relevant agencies to ensure the long-term enhancement of Disease-Free Childcare Center standards.