Implementation of the Iron Supplement Distribution Program for Adolescent Girls
Keywords:
adolescent girls, anemia, health program implementation, iron-folic acid, north lampung, supplementation complianceAbstract
Iron-deficiency anemia is a major public health concern, particularly among adolescent girls due to menstrual blood loss and inadequate dietary intake. To address this issue, the Indonesian Ministry of Health has implemented a weekly Iron-Folic Acid Supplementation (IFAS) program targeting adolescent girls through schools and primary health centers. This Research aimed to evaluate the implementation of the IFAS program among adolescent girls in North Lampung District, identify key barriers, and provide recommendations to improve program effectiveness. A qualitative descriptive approach was used through interviews, observations, document reviews, and focus group discussions with stakeholders including health workers, UKS teachers, and program managers. Data were analyzed thematically and prioritized using the USG (Urgency, Seriousness, Growth) method and Fishbone diagram analysis. Among 32,599 adolescent girls in the district, only 51.89% received iron tablets and 49.51% consumed them as recommended. The main challenges identified were insufficient training for health workers, inconsistent tablet distribution, limited educational outreach, and lack of a structured monitoring system. Key priority problems included inadequate health worker capacity, stock irregularities, and unengaging education methods. The IFAS program in North Lampung faces several implementation challenges that hinder its effectiveness. Strengthening health worker training, ensuring equitable tablet distribution, integrating digital monitoring tools, and enhancing multi-sectoral collaboration are critical to improving compliance and reducing anemia among adolescent girls.
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