Empowered Women, Healthier Communities: Strengthening MAS Groups to Enhance Community Accountability in Bihar

Visiting the health facility under the 'Know Your Facility' campaign gave me the opportunity to see firsthand the available services. Now, I confidently guide community on accessing health services. I have helped many couples to avail family planning services and maternal health services. It felt empowering to make a real difference.

For instance, one MAS member recently assisted a pregnant woman in reaching the nearest health facility for delivery using untied MAS funds. This decisive action reflects the effective coaching provided by TCI, which has trained MAS members to prioritize urgent health issues such as maternal health and family planning. Members have also been trained in decision-making, identifying key health priorities – including heat wave preparedness, diarrhoea prevention, nutrition, healthy habits, and communicable disease control – and advocating for necessary services.

To ensure accountability and transparency, MAS groups receive printed registers to document meeting minutes and track fund utilization. Between April and November 2024, over 75% of MAS members underwent health check-ups at their assigned facilities, underscoring the growing awareness and engagement fostered by these initiatives.

A key success has been strengthening MAS governance. When an inactive secretary was identified, members democratically nominated a new leader, demonstrating their commitment to effective leadership and accountability. Beyond regular community meetings, the state government now conducts monthly online sessions with district health officials and development partners to discuss MAS strategies. These meetings provide ongoing training, reinforce community accountability, and address practical challenges such as funding for refreshments and materials. The MAS initiative in Bihar has emerged as a model for community-led health transformation.

Recognizing its impact, the government is now scaling it up across 22 additional non-TCI-supported cities. As part of this expansion, health cards have been developed for all MAS members in these cities. Once printed and distributed, these cards are expected to enhance healthcare access and improve overall well-being. This initiative stands as a powerful testament to the impact of women-led decision-making and community accountability in achieving sustainable health outcomes. By strengthening local leadership and fostering greater engagement, MAS continues to drive lasting change in Bihar’s public health landscape.

With TCI’s support, MAS in Bihar has become a catalyst for community health and women’s empowerment across seven intervention cities – Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, Munger, Rohtas, and West Champaran. This initiative has significantly enhanced community participation in health-related decision-making and empowered women to take on leadership roles.