Background: Health challenges in rural areas like Bantardawa Village, Ciamis Regency, often stem from inadequate sanitation, poor health practices, and limited access to healthcare services. To address these issues, community empowerment through health education and accessible health programs is essential. This study focuses on the health empowerment initiatives in Bantardawa, aiming to promote healthy living behaviors (PHBS), prevent stunting, encourage the use of herbal medicine (TOGA), and support routine health monitoring.
Methods: A 40-day Community Service Program (KKN) was implemented in Dusun Sukadana, Bantardawa. The program employed lectures, practical demonstrations, and community-based activities to educate and engage local residents. Activities targeted schoolchildren, pregnant women, and families, focusing on hygiene, nutrition, and sustainable health practices.
Results: The program led to an increase in PHBS awareness and improved hygiene practices among students. Stunting prevention initiatives successfully raised maternal awareness about nutrition, while TOGA training equipped families with knowledge to use local herbal remedies. Routine health programs, including screenings and medical check-ups, enhanced community access to essential health services.
Discussion: The integration of health education with practical activities successfully shifted community behavior. However, challenges like resource limitations and sustained engagement remain.
Conclusion: Community empowerment through targeted health programs effectively addresses rural health issues, with an emphasis on education, local resources, and sustainable practices.
Novelty: This study demonstrates the potential of combining traditional knowledge (TOGA) with modern health practices to improve rural healthcare outcomes.
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