Health Empowerment of Kito Rato's Disability Group in Changing Attitudes and Knowledge Related to Covid-19

Abstract

Introduction: Until now, Covid-19 is still a public health problem that affects everyone, including people with disabilities, one of the vulnerable groups affected. Covid-19 has an impact on all sectors of life, especially health. Kito Rato is one of the MSMEs disability groups that has a high risk of spreading the Covid-19 virus. Objective: This study is to assess perceptions, attitudes, and actions as well as the effectiveness of health empowerment education related to Covid-19 prevention. In addition, vaccination, and adaptation to new life for the MSME disability group Kito Rato, South Tangerang was also examined. Methods: The research method used qualitative research and the approach used was Health Belief Model (HBM). The research was conducted online using the Zoom application and WhatsApp social media. Results: The results showed that the health empowerment activities related to Covid-19 increased knowledge and changed perceptions and attitudes of active participants who previously did not know and care about Covid-19 and its prevention. They became aware and concerned, and wrong perceptions became correct perceptions. Through health empowerment provided by members of the Kito Rato group, they could actively participate in preventing Covid-19. This was done by implementing health protocols and undergoing vaccinations as well as involving other disabled groups to prevent Covid-19 in their environment. Conclusion: Through health empowerment provided by members of the Kito Rato group, they could actively participate in preventing Covid-19 by implementing health protocols and undergoing vaccinations as well as inviting other disabled groups to prevent Covid-19 in their environment.