575 Developing and testing comprehensive community model to strengthen post-crash response in rural tribal settings

<h3>Background</h3> RTIs (Road Traffic Injuries) in India, claims 1,68,491 annual deaths, with 68% occurring in rural India. Rajasthan ranks 6th, with 76% rural RTI fatalities. Current prevention efforts focus on urban areas, leaving rural regions without a robust community-based response model. Recognizing this gap, we aimed to develop and test a comprehensive post-crash response model for rural communities. <h3>Objective</h3> To identify the gaps and barriers related to provisioning of post-crash response at community level. <h3>Co -designing the intervention model.</h3> Pilot testing the community-based post-crash response model. <h3>Program Description</h3> Using a mixed-method approach (KAP baseline survey, FGD, interviews), we aimed to understand the community’s risk profile for RTI and identify gaps and barriers in post-crash response. <h3>Co-Creation</h3> Baseline findings and community co-creation (resource mapping and stakeholder engagement), led to co-development of need-based intervention model, focused on enhancing knowledge and skills domains in road safety, post-crash response (safe shifting, call for help, bleeding control, splinting) and government schemes. <h3>Pilot Testing</h3> By training diverse active community members <h3>Implementation: </h3> Implemented model utilizing trained community members in cascading manner with capability development. <h3>Outcomes and Learnings</h3> Three surveyors covered 400 households across 16 villages in Southern Rajasthan for a baseline survey. Only 7% knew about post-crash care, and 8% were aware of RTI-related schemes. Barriers: 74% feared legal consequences for involving in accident, and 30% feared harming victims due to a lack of knowledge. Intervention involved 100 households and relevant stakeholders, 6 programs. After two programs, model was tweaked to updated model. Pilot testing showed a 70% knowledge increase, 50% rise in rational attitudes, and 25% positive change in adopting preventive measures. Moreover, an 80% boost in post-crash response knowledge and 18% rise in awareness of emergency healthcare services showcased the model’s effectiveness. 70% rise in awareness of government schemes and Good Samaritan Law addressed legal fears. <h3>Key Learnings</h3> Seamless integration, monitored interventions, early government engagement, leveraging village council strength are vital. Financial support can be force multiplier. <h3>Implication</h3> This community model is effective and scalable at communities with similar context. <h3>Conclusion</h3> The comprehensive community model is effective and implementable at community level.