Field study of worker performance in a community-based health and family planning project, Oyo State, Nigeria

This report presents results of a March 1984 study of the performance of these workers. Major conclusions of the study, which was based on interviews with 35 workers and 21 clients in 6 of 14 maternity centers, are as follows. (1) The program elicited positive community support and achieved most of its objectives. (2) The volunteer workers performed their tasks conscientiously and correctly, often at considerable cost to themselves. (3) FP is integrated into program services and is promoted by workers in spite of a general taboo. (4) Female workers specialize in maternal and child health and FP services, while males specialize in treating injuries, wounds, and general ailments. (5) An informal referral or consulting system has emerged among CBD workers, as has an effective and frequently used referral system linking CBD workers and their communities with government health facilities.