One Message, One Quality of Care Tool: Client-provider Orientation Materials For Brazilian Family Planning Association

Project Dates: 1985-87

• Overview
• Materials Produced
• Lessons Learned

Overview

The purpose of this project was to:

1. Motivate and inform current and potential users of family planning services about the benefits and risks of each method and its proper use

2. Train promoters in the use of IEC materials



3. Orient the general public regarding the availability of family planning services in the community.

This project was a pioneer effort in Brazil in systematically producing and distributing family planning IEC materials. JHU/PCS worked closely with the national network ABEPF to develop materials that would be appropriate in all regions of the country. To further support the effort to strengthen the quality of services available at family planning centers, regional workshops were conducted to train service providers in the proper use of the IEC materials.

Materials Produced

A complete set of client-provider orientation materials was developed for current and potential clients and service providers in the 150 ABEPF (Association of Brazilian Family Planning Agencies) affiliates nationwide. Informational brochures and method-specific pamphlets were developed specifically for the client to read and take home. Other materials, such as a flipchart, wallchart and manual, were designed to assist clinic educators during group counseling sessions.

All materials were unified with a common "look" and the slogan, "We inform, you decide." The messages of the materials were all mutually reinforcing. Pretesting of the materials was conducted in three cities. This was one of the first comprehensive and coordinated sets of client-provider materials on family planning developed for use throughout a country in Latin America.

Lessons Learned

The approach utilized by this groundbreaking project has proven to be useful in countries across Latin America. For example, in Bolivia, Peru, and Mexico a similar strategy is being implemented to provide family planning clients and service providers with information and training essential for first-rate quality of care.