Objectives
To test methods to deliver MNPs to children 6 to 24 months in targeted areas of Cambodia
Methods
A multi-channel MNP strategy was implemented to increase use of MNP including cascade training, monitoring, a mass media campaign and promotion by village health volunteers (VHVs). Three MNP delivery strategies were tested: (i) a community based delivery model, whereby VHVs are responsible for MNP distribution in five target villages or operational districts (ODs); (ii) “fixed site” delivery model (1 OD), whereby eligible households are asked to collect the MNPs from their Health Centers; and (iii) mix of fixed site and VHV delivery models (1 OD). Baseline and endline data on coverage was collected at village, health center (HC) and Operational District (OD) level by VHVs and staff from health centers and ODs.
Results
Before program implementation, the average rate of MNP coverage was 3% in the 7 target ODs. After program establishment, the five ODs using community based distribution achieved 72.3% coverage across the final 11 months of program implementation. In the same period, coverage rates in the fixed site OD achieved 30% coverage, while the OD using a mix of VHVs and fixed sites achieved coverage rates of 63%.
Conclusions
MNP coverage was considerably higher in target ODs where VHVs were exclusively responsible for distribution, as compared to target ODs using fixed site or mixed distribution. Community based distribution of MNP via VHVs should be scaled up to promote wider use of MNP in rural Cambodia.
