Family development: a functional choice-making approach based on the national family planning program. Summary
Kong, S.K.; Cho, A.J.; Kim, E.S.
Pogon Sahoe Nonjip 10(2): 188-189
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 1226-0282 PMID: 12179746 Document Number: 520558
Family planning in Korea has contributed to below replacement level fertility. As a consequence, the direction of family planning needs to be changed to a quality rather than a quantity-oriented system. The emphasis should be on a family development: maternal and child health and family welfare. 3 future directions have been identified in terms of basic program service, focus on overall health, and expansion of scope. The basic objective providing information and affordable contraceptive supplies for new clients -- should remain. The service delivery can be improved and the incidence of induced abortion can be reduced. Focusing on the overall health status of family members contributes to the quality of life of the population. Infectious diseases no longer predominate, but the chronic diseases that do can be prevented with good daily health practices. These practices include sound dietary habits and regular exercise. If housewives are reduced, a comprehensive home health care system can developed. Community health practitioners (CHPs) would support the housewives. Finally, family welfare programs should be added to traditional family planning programs. Changing values and complicated roles create problems in family life. Role development for women and the elderly is another function served by a family welfare program. Therapy and education programs are a viable solution. Mother's clubs, senior citizens' schools, and neighborhood or village meetings are community institutions which could serve as educational forums to prevent family problems. For more entrenched problems, therapy is available through professional counseling services. This expanded and comprehensive health and welfare role of projected family planning programs serves to improve the quality of life as well as improving fertility control. This can be accomplished with the active participation of housewives and CHPs with professional help.