Leprosy Controversy

to leprosy is not perceived important since the disease is not always the immediate cause of death (World Health Organization n.d.).
“Like tuberculosis leprosy must also be taken more seriously by the society. The policies must also change accordingly.” Program Coordinator for Leprosy, THO, Dahanu.
Hence there should be more thrust given to the program among all level of health care providers.

WEAK SOCIAL SUPPORT AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES:
There is also a tendency to overlook the social support that is t be given to the patients. Most services are centered on drug therapy. However in this tribal block, poverty and all its implications are a major concern. Hence it is important to strengthen the provision of other services such as food grains, compensation for lost
Given the non-acute nature of leprosy it is a disease that is overlooked by most of the GHS staff. There is considerable apathy towards this program by most in the GHS staff post-integration. There should be a component to reinforce the importance of the program and it is also imperative to motivate the GHS staff regarding the same.
• While it is important to give the responsibility to all the field staff, it is also desirable to make sure one cadre handles leprosy. ANMs are already burdened. Hence they should be freed of this responsibility and MPWs must be given the responsibility entirely. From the interviews with the MO of the PHC what was deciphered was that there is a tendency to put the entire accountability of every program upon the ANM. There should be a strong sense of accountability by the GHS staff. Prioritization of the NLEP is necessary.
• The GHS staffs are already overburdened and are expected to carry out these activities as well. The number of staff is not proportionate to the current population of the area. Thus more staffs are