Development of Participatory Learning Process in Road Accident Prevention and Management Through District Health Board Mechanism, Kamalasai District, Kalasin Province

Abstract

This research and development study aimed to investigate road accident situations and related factors, develop participatory learning processes, implement and evaluate interventions, and propose appropriate road accident prevention and management processes through District Health Board mechanisms. The study employed a four-phase research and development design. The sample consisted of 400 citizens, 5 experts, 15 District Health Board committee members, and 50 community volunteers. Data were collected using questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including paired t-tests, and results were presented as mean difference, 95% confidence interval (CI), and p-value.

The findings revealed that: 1) Although accident rates showed a declining trend, they remained above target levels. The primary risk groups were males, adolescents aged 10-19 years, and motorcyclists. Major risk behaviors included using mobile phones while driving, driving while fatigued, and unsafe overtaking. 2) The developed process comprised four stages: preparation, capacity building, area-based implementation, and sustainability development. 3) Implementation results showed a statistically significant increase in average health literacy scores from 2.92 to 3.87 (increase of 0.95, p<0.01, 95% CI: -1.33 to -0.57), indicating improvements across all health literacy domains, particularly in problem management and environmental aspects. While overall district accident rates decreased compared to the three-year average, four sub-districts showed increased accident rates, with fatalities reported in only one sub-district. 4) The improved model was validated by experts as appropriate and scalable for wider implementation. Therefore, developing road safety awareness and reducing accident rates still require proactive measures for high-risk areas and populations. The success of this approach demonstrates its potential for adaptation and expansion to other districts to enhance road safety at the national level.