Evaluation report : endline performance evaluation of USAID-funded maternal and child survival program (MCSP) in Myanmar

The program was carried out to respond to strategic priorities of the Ministry of Health and Sports (MOHS) for improving maternal, newborn, and child health by strengthening the institutional capacity of in-service midwifery. MCSP improved the in-service capacity of health staff by developing and updating maternal and child health-related policies, guidelines, and standard operating procedures. It also provided in-service training in best practices and fostered an enabling environment. The activity was aligned with MOHS interests and yielded strong government buy-in. MCSP’s support for the existing cascade training model, quality improvement approaches, and setup of the Learning and Performance Improvement Center (L&PIC) sites were in line with the MOHS’ policy. The effectiveness of MCSP was demonstrated by improved staff performance scores and high knowledge retention rates. MCSP supported the creation of professional development opportunities for midwives, lady health visitors, and other basic health staff via continuous education, accreditation, and a clinical skills-based assessment relicensing system. MCSP successfully engaged with ethnic health organizations (EHOs) and increased trust and coordination between the MOHS and EHOs. MCSP has the potential to be sustainable due to the improved staff capacity and the establishment of L&PIC sites.