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Collaboration with government leaders to promote sustainability, Cross River State, Nigeria
Author(s) -
Duke F,
Asuquo E,
Ottong J,
Olaniran N,
Ekanem E
Publication year - 1997
Publication title -
international journal of gynecology and obstetrics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.895
H-Index - 97
eISSN - 1879-3479
pISSN - 0020-7292
DOI - 10.1016/s0020-7292(97)00155-0
Subject(s) - government (linguistics) , medicine , sustainability , state (computer science) , psychological intervention , public relations , health facility , focus group , nursing , economic growth , business , environmental health , population , health services , marketing , political science , ecology , philosophy , linguistics , algorithm , computer science , economics , biology
Preliminary studies: Focus group studies and facility reviews revealed poorly equipped and under‐utilized emergency obstetric facilities in two rural communities in Cross River State, Nigeria. Interventions: Beginning in late 1992, state and local government leaders were contacted to sensitize them to the problem of maternal mortality and enlist their cooperation in activities to upgrade obstetric services. Results: A maternal health unit was created in the State Ministry of Health. Government officials were instrumental in upgrading hospital and polyclinic facilities, correcting staff shortages, repairing an ambulance, establishing a blood bank, granting leave to midwives for participation in skills workshops and facilitating dissemination of information. Costs: Nineteen visits to government officials required approximately 33 person‐days of the team's time. Transportation, communication and per diems were also paid. Government contributed a considerable amount in staff time and provided venues for workshops. Conclusions: A great deal can be achieved to improve emergency obstetric services through collaboration with government. Support and cooperation of government leaders can also enhance sustainability of interventions. © 1997 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics