Implementation Outcomes of National Convergence Action Policy to Accelerate Stunting Prevention and Reduction at the Local Level in Indonesia: A Qualitative Study.

The study aims to explore the implementation outcome variables of Indonesia's national policy convergence action in the stunting reduction intervention at district, sub-district, and village levels. The study design was qualitative with an implementation research approach at District Cirebon, Indonesia. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, study documents, and 6 months of participant observation. We recruited 172 respondents. The assessment instrument used was formed on was implementation outcomes variables. Data were analyzed through coding, categorizing and thematic content analysis based on a predetermined theme. Comparative cross district activity-site analysis was applied between sub-districts and villages. The implementation outcome variables for the convergence action policy were performed well at the district level, in line with the central government's adequate regulation, control, and budget. Meanwhile, the sub-district and village levels only performed aspects of acceptability, appropriateness, and coverage for specific interventions. The acceptability level in the village was only partially running. The barriers at the sub-district and village levels were issues of commitment, staff capacity, and poor coordination. Superficial understanding and capacity weaknesses drove the convergence of the stunting reduction responsibility back into the burden of the health sector at the forefront. Local politics also colored the implementation in the village.