Embedding Digital Payments for FPOs
Using KANCHI to empower farmers with digital tools and transparent transactions
A Time and Motion Study for Assessing the Role and Service Delivery of ANMs (Auxiliary Nurse Midwives) in Meghalaya
Research at a Glance
This study presents the findings of a time and motion analysis conducted among Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) in Meghalaya to understand their work patterns, responsibilities, and challenges in delivering healthcare services at the community level.
Given Meghalaya’s hilly terrain and limited availability of skilled healthcare personnel, ANMs play a vital role in ensuring essential healthcare services reach both rural and urban populations. The study aimed to measure how ANMs allocate their time across various activities and to identify key factors that influence their performance and motivation.
40
MN+
ANMs observed across multiple districts over 6 working days each.
40–45
MN+
minute interviews conducted per participant to capture qualitative insights.
Understanding the workload, motivation, and challenges of frontline health workers in Meghalaya.
The exploratory, cross-sectional study used both quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data were gathered through direct observation of ANMs’ daily routines, while qualitative insights were drawn from in-depth structured interviews.
The findings revealed that ANMs spend a significant amount of time on administrative tasks such as record-keeping and report preparation, which limits the time available for patient-focused activities. The study recommends smart digitisation solutions to automate reporting and reduce manual documentation, thereby improving efficiency and service quality.
Interestingly, contractual ANMs were found to perform better than their regular counterparts despite lower pay and lack of job security. The study suggests exploring performance-based incentives for contractual workers and strengthening health infrastructure to create better working conditions. It also proposes public–private partnerships to improve healthcare facilities and enhance community-level service delivery.
Who can benefit from this study?
State Health Departments and Policymakers:
Can use the insights to optimise workforce allocation, introduce performance-linked incentives, and implement digital systems that enhance efficiency.
Healthcare Foundations and Development Partners: Healthcare Foundations and Development Partners:
Can leverage the findings to design targeted interventions for improving working conditions, infrastructure, and service delivery in rural health systems.
.jpeg)
