PERILAKU PENGASUH KELUARGA/FAMILY CAREGIVER DI WILAYAH KERJA PUSKESMAS BIROBULI

Family caregivers for schizophrenia who lack knowledge and make incorrect treatment decisions can prolong the recovery process. Based on reports from the Birobuli Health Center, the incidence of schizophrenia from 2021 to 2022 remained high, with 22 cases reported. This study aims to examine the behavior of family caregivers for schizophrenia in the working area of Birobuli Health Center. A qualitative study with a case study approach was conducted, involving six informants selected through purposive sampling. The results indicate that the predisposition factors regarding knowledge related to the definition, causes, and roles of family caregivers for schizophrenia were explained adequately by the informants. Initially, some informants expressed feelings of shame, regret, emotional shock, and surprise upon the diagnosis; however, over time, they began to accept the patient's condition. Regarding treatment actions, some informants were delayed in providing medical treatment, although the support they offered was generally good. In terms of enabling factors, informants reported having accessibility to medical treatment. As for driving factors, healthcare workers at Birobuli Health Center implemented home visit programs for schizophrenia patients and provided education to family caregivers. It is recommended that health workers enhance home visit programs not only as a form of support and monitoring for patients but also to assist family caregivers, helping alleviate their burden in caring for schizophrenia patients at home.