Community-based distribution programs take contraceptive methods to people where they live, rather than requiring people to visit clinics or other locations for services. Articles examine recent research involving programmatic issues and profile services, highlighting Peru, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe.
In this issue
Community-based Distribution Serves Unmet Needs
By reaching into rural communities and isolated neighborhoods, community-based distribution programs can serve unmet needs for contraception. In general, these programs take contraceptive methods to people where they live, rather than requiring people to visit clinics or other locations for services.
Ways to Expand Contraceptive Choices
Barrier methods and oral contraceptives are available through many programs offering community-based family planning. With proper training, community workers can give injectable contraceptives. Mobile teams of medical professionals can provide other methods, such as sterilization or intrauterine devices.
Motivating Community-based Workers
In some programs offering community-based family planning, workers are paid; in others, they are volunteers. Some workers live in the village they serve, others do not. Recent research examines how these and other factors influence job performance.
Comparing CBD Program Costs
While community-based distribution of family planning services can be cost-effective, some studies have found other delivery approaches are less expensive.
Offering CBD and Other Services
Community-based family planning services can be combined with other health services, including disease prevention, prenatal and antenatal care and oral rehydration therapy.
Four CBD Programs
CARE Project Enlists Community Support describes a rural community-based distribution effort in Peru, while a project serving urban clients in Peru is profiled in City Life Isolates Many Clients. One of the world's oldest and largest programs considers a new strategy in Bangladesh Refines a Successful Program. In Zimbabwe's "Clinics under Trees" Increase Access, one of Africa's most successful community-based programs is featured.
Gender Norms Affect Community Distribution
Community-based services that bring contraceptive services into homes can help women obtain control over their fertility and thereby enhance their autonomy and self-esteem. However, programs that exclude men can perpetuate the notion that family planning is solely a woman's responsibility. These and other gender issues involving community-based distribution are examined.
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