Advocacy for free maternal and child health care in Nigeria - Results and outcomes

Type Journal Article - Health policy
Title Advocacy for free maternal and child health care in Nigeria - Results and outcomes
Author(s)
Volume 99
Issue 2
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2011
Page numbers 131-138
URL http://www.popline.org/node/224349
Abstract
The study was designed to determine the outcome of an advocacy program aimed at implementing a policy of free maternal and child health (MCH) services in Nigeria. The team conducted a situational analysis on costing of MCH services, and used the results to conduct public health education and advocacy. Advocacy consisted of public presentation on MCH to high-level policymakers, dissemination of situational analysis report, and media publicity. The implementation of free MCH services at national and sub-national levels was assessed 3 years after. The results showed that the number of States offering comprehensive free MCH services increased from four to nine; the States offering partially free MCH services increased from 11 to 14 (8.1% increase); while those not offering any form of free treatment decreased from 22 to 14 (21.7% decrease). We conclude that advocacy and public health education is effective in increasing the commitment of policymakers to provide resources for implementing evidence-based maternal and child health services in Nigeria.

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