Project assistance completion report : family health services project

TA was provided by Pathfinder International, and to a lesser extent, the Program for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH), and the Association for Voluntary Surgical Contraception (AVSC). Until January 1992, the project focused on strengthening FLAS's research and evaluation capability and clinical services, and on laying a foundation for improved information, education, and communication (IEC). Achievements included creation of a FLAS Research and Evaluation Unit and completion of a comprehensive study of FP attitudes, resulting in a new plan for IEC. In January 1992, FLAS launched a pilot program to help industries to provide FP and AIDS/STD (sexually transmitted disease) education. The program, which was implemented at four large and three medium-sized industrial sites, uses peer educators to promote contraception, distribute foams and condoms, and make referrals. FLAS has also trained industry nurses in contraceptive methods, including IUD insertion. A 1993 project amendment eliminated the research and clinical objectives, which by then were well-established, expanded the IEC and industry programs, and added components to introduce voluntary surgical contraception and increase FLAS's self-sufficiency. AVSC provided training in mini-laparotomy to FLAS and industry doctors and nurses. Currently, mini-laparotomy is offered in FLAS clinics and by all the doctors trained under the project. Finally, project funds were used to purchase and renovate a house to serve as FLAS's Mbabane clinic, and to construct a headquarters for FLAS (completed 3/96). The primary lesson learned is the importance of continuous fund raising by the FLAS Board. FLAS management waited until the end of the project to introduce cost recovery and earnestly begin their fund raising. This has meant a hiatus in activities.