Thesis (B.S.) -- Cagayan State University, 2025.

This study explored the experiences and challenges of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) in delivering postpartum care in selected barangays of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan Anchored on a descriptive qualitative design, the researchers used purposive sampling to interview ten BHWs through semi-structured conversations that captured then lived realities on the ground

Thematic analysis revealed five key experience-based themes (1) routine postpartum services such as vitamin provision, newborn monitoring, and home visits, (2) health communication including advice and persuasion to ensure compliance with postpartum care, (3) psychosocial sensitivity toward emotionally vulnerable mothers, (4) expanded responsibilities that go beyond what is formally expected of BHWs; and (5) voluntary service sustained by personal commitment and emotional resilience On the other hand, challenges were grouped into three dominant categories lack of postpartum-specific training, insufficient financial and logistical support, and absence of institutional recognition.

These findings suggest that BHWs play a critical yet often unacknowledged role in bridging the gap between local communities and formal maternal healthcare systems. Despite their efforts, they remain unsupported by uniform national policies, adequate training, and stable compensation. The study concludes that strengthening postpartum care delivery requires not only recognition of BHWs' contributions but also the full implementation of institutional support mechanisms such as Republic Act 7883 and the WHO Health Systems Framework.

Keywords:

Barangay Health Workers, decentralization, grassroots health system, maternal health, policy implementation, postpartum care, qualitative research, Tuguegarao City