Child survival in Indonesia
Leinbach, T.R.
Third World Planning Review 10(3): 255-269
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0142-7849 PMID: 12342382 Document Number: 362700
The 1980 infant mortality rate of 107 per 1000 live births in Indonesia was two to three times the average rate in the surrounding ASEAN countries. Provincial rates vary from 187 in West Nusa Tenggara to 62 in Yogyakarta. This variation is explained in part by female education levels, access to health facilities and the impact of health programmes, especially family planning. In addition, mortality rates and the usage of modern health care continue to reflect historical and cultural imprints. A programme strategy for improvements in infant and child mortality focuses on four basic elements(GOBI): growth monitoring, oral rehydration therapy (ORT), breast feeding, and immunization. These efforts are delivered largely through the Expanded Immunization Programme (EPI) and the Family Nutrition Programme (UPGK). A potential major breakthrough in primary health care has been realized with the development of a network of integrated health posts (posyandu) which deliver multiple services more efficiently in rural areas.