JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Stunting due to malnutrition during the early years, is associated with irreversible growth loss, compromised cognitive development, and increased risks of morbidity and mortality in adulthood. Therefore, establishing a robust nutritional surveillance system is crucial for accurately assessing a population's nutritional status. In Indonesia, Posyandu (integrated health posts) and specifically trained staff play a vital role in the growth monitoring of children under 5 (CU5). As mobile phone technology is increasingly recognized for its potential role in health programs, it may also play a role in the Indonesian population health programs, for example using WhatsApp for improving the surveillance of CU5’s nutritional status during Posyandu activities.

Objective:

This paper aims to describe the potential use of WhatsApp as a tool for recording and monitoring CU5’s growth in Posyandu, investigating its potential in enhancing health programs and services.

Methods:

Data was collected from community health workers in Bogor District, West Java from March to June 2022. The anthropometric measurement data was reported in real-time through a WhatsApp chatbot, automatically analyzed by the system and presented in a structured dashboard. A qualitative assessment was carried out using a cross-sectional survey in March-July 2022.

Results:

The study involved 42 Posyandu in three villages, engaging 282 staff and the WhatsApp chatbot recorded anthropometric data for 4,571 CU5. The qualitative assessment indicated widespread system utilization, with 50% affirming comprehensive data input. Additionally, 66.40% found the system easy to use, and 66.67% expressed clarity in comprehending variables. Moreover, 75.61% found the data input flow easily understood, and 73.98% suggested that the system contributed to enhancing Posyandu activities and the quality of data reporting. Regarding staff proficiency, 63.49% affirmed their adeptness in utilizing the system, and 70.97% asserted their high capability in providing training to fellow colleagues.

Conclusions:

The potential use of WhatsApp as a surveillance tool for recording children's nutritional status is promising, suggesting broader applications within health programs. Nonetheless, this expansion necessitates improvements, including human resource preparation, Posyandu infrastructure development, and strong regulatory support.