Community Implementers as Dual Agents in an Oral Health Programme: A Qualitative Exploration

IntroductionCommunity outreach models have been developed to address persistent structural barriers in the delivery of oral healthcare. In response to these challenges, a community-based oral health programme known as Program Kampung Angkat Pergigian (PKAP) was locally established to strengthen community engagement by positioning community leaders and dental icon representatives as community implementers who mediate between oral healthcare professionals and the community. This study explores the roles and experiences of these community -implementers within this programme.MethodsAn exploratory qualitative design was employed, and participants were purposively sampled from three districts in Negeri Sembilan, representing urban, suburban, and rural communities. Data were generated from 10 in-depth interviews with community implementers, and interviews were guided by a semi-structured question guide. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysed using codebook thematic analysis approaches. Coding disagreements were resolved through team discussions, and data collection continued until saturation was reached.ResultsThe analysis identified three key themes: navigation of programme expectations with lived realities, trust and position of community implementers in influencing engagement, and bridging the gap between health systems and community. The findings highlight the significance of operational support, trust, contextual awareness, and the systemic limitations these community representatives have in delivering home visit services.ConclusionThese insights underscore the value these implementers bring in delivering community-driven interventions and the importance of sustaining this relationship.