An evaluation of Profamilia's female sterilization program in Colombia
Williams, T.; Ojeda, G.; Trías, M.
Studies in Family Planning 21(5): 251-264
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0039-3665 PMID: 2237994 DOI: 10.2307/1966505Document Number: 371071
Since 1970, PROFAMILIA has provided highly successful services in voluntary surgical contraception to women and men throughout Colombia. The objectives have been to offer to everyone, especially the poor, an easy, safe, effective, economic and permanent form of protection against unwanted births. The findings of three surveys and three studies used by PROFAMILIA to evaluate and improve its voluntary female sterilization programme are presented. The surveys identified and measured sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics of users including rural/urban residence, factors behind the sterilization decision, and user satisfaction with the operation in the short run and over time. The studies explored methodologies for more accurate cost-effectiveness analysis. Results were used by PROFAMILIA management to identify areas of programme strengths and weaknesses and to implement operational changes. The findings of 3 surveys and 3 studies used by PROFAMILIA [a private, nonprofit family planning organization based in Bogota] to evaluate and improve their voluntary female sterilization program are presented. The surveys measured sociodemographic characteristics of users, factors behind the sterilization decision, and user satisfaction with the operation in the short run and over time. The studies explored methodologies for more accurate cost-effectiveness analysis. Results of the projects were used by PROFAMILIA management to identify areas of program strengths and weaknesses and to implement operational changes.AS.