The goals of most family planning programs include protecting the health of women and children, supporting women's rights, providing information and counseling related to male and female reproductive health, and stabilizing population growth. Family planning allows couples to decide whether or when they want to have children. Use of family planning services gives individuals and couples both the opportunity to make informed choices. But like any other intervention program that delivers services to the public, there are certain strategies and elements which lead to success.
Step 1
Compare the birth rate in a specific geographical area both before and after offering intervention programs. In order for a program to be deemed a success, the post-intervention period should show a lower birth rate in areas where family planning services are available.
Step 2
Look at the types of services available. Determine whether adequate support is in place to meet the current need. Consider if growing numbers of clients will have access to education, information and services. In some cases, program administrators may have to make choices such as prioritizing programs or integrating related services.
Step 3
Explore various alternatives for allocating resources more efficiently. This involves comparing costs for each of the services being offered. Establish if there are enough funds available to support multiple program goals or to expand the scope of services.
Step 4
Assess ways to continue funding viable programs. While charging clients fees may provide one source of revenue, this approach must be used carefully. Fees may discourage clients who are unable to pay from using family planning services. According to Planned Parenthood, reports show that one in four women in this country receive their contraceptive care at a women's health center in their community that offers access to affordable birth control and preventive health care.
Step 5
Think about ways to reduce costs. Many family planning programs operate on limited financial resources. The problem then becomes how to continue to offer quality services to clients at lower cost. Soliciting additional public support may be one option.
