Collaboration with government leaders to promote sustainability, Cross River State, Nigeria. The Calabar PMM Team.
BACKGROUND
Focus group studies and facility reviews revealed poorly equipped and under-utilized emergency obstetric facilities in two rural communities in Cross River State, Nigeria. INTERUENTIONS: 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.


RESULTS
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.
Duke
F
F
Labour Ward, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.
Asuquo
E
E
Ottong
J
J
Olaniran
N
N
Ekanem
E
E
D003151:Community Health Centers; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D005260:Female; D006076:Government; D006801:Humans; D008427:Maternal Health Services; D008428:Maternal Mortality; D009549:Nigeria; D011247:Pregnancy