Philippine E-Journals

Assessment of the Quality of Family Planning Services in Selected Service Delivery Points in the Philippines

Trinidad S. Osteria

Discipline: Health, Science

 

Abstract:

In December 1995, a grant was provided by the UNFPA through the DOH Family Planning Service to De La Salle

University Social Development Research Center (SDRC) to undertake an evaluation of quality of care in family planning services in different service delivery points (SDPs) in the country. The objectives of the evaluation were as follows: (I) to describe the availability and quality of family planning activities in a sample of service delivery points in the country; (2) to analyze the relationship between subsystem functioning and the quality of services and posit modifications at the programmatic and policy levels; and (3) to derive meaningful indicators for the assessment of quality of care which relate to client satisfaction and program performance.

 

The approach to assess the quality in family planning service delivery was to examine the strengths and weaknesses of the program focusing on all major subsystems. Using both observation and interviewing techniques, information was collected on the key indicators of family planning subsystems, quality of care, and SDO performance.

 

Three basic questions were addressed by this study to help program managers and administrators develop policy recommendations for the program guidance and possible redirection; make necessary improvements in the range, type, and quality of services provided; and establish baseline measures for planning and evaluating future improvement: (l) is each subsystem in place, that is, ready to provide services? These are: (a) logistics/supplies; (b) facilities/equipment; (c) staff; (d) supervision/management; (e) information, education, and communication (IEC); and (f) record keeping. (2) If in place, is each subsystem functioning and ready to provide quality services? (3) If each subsystem is functioning, are quality of services actually being provided and received? The six components include: (a) choice of contraceptive methods; (b) provider-client information exchange such as understanding client needs and information given to clients; (c) provider competence; (d) client-provider interaction; (e) mechanisms to encourage continuity; and (f) constellation of services.

 

A set of forms was utilized. Results were tabulated and recommendations were generated.