The Development of a Health Promotion and Environmental Health System for Juvenile Detention and Protection Facilities in Health Region 8.

Abstract

     This study employed a participatory action research (PAR) approach, applying the cyclical process of action research consisting of four main phases: 1) planning for positive change, 2) implementing the action plan, 3) observation, and 4) reflection. The study was conducted in three stages: (1) situational analysis of health promotion and environmental sanitation; (2) development of a comprehensive system; and (3) evaluation of the system implemented in the Juvenile Observation and Protection Center under Health Region 8. Key informants included center administrators, vocational instructors (housekeeping), probation officers, registered nurses, psychologists, cooks, and the juveniles themselves. Health and environmental data were collected before and after the intervention.

     The results indicated that the developed system significantly enhanced access to health services and environmental sanitation through a structured approach. Key strengths were identified in four dimensions: 1) policy development, 2) administration and management, 3) integration, and 4) participation. After implementation, there was a noticeable improvement in the provision of basic health services for juveniles, including screenings for lice, nutritional assessment, oral health, anemia, vision, and hearing—reaching 100% service coverage, which had previously been limited or absent. The facility also made substantial improvements in aligning environmental sanitation practices with public health standards. This included improvements in water quality for consumption and use, and the implementation of monitoring protocols for food safety, kitchen utensils, and food handlers. The outcomes reflect the system’s success in supporting the long-term health and well-being of juveniles.