Description

Governmental and semi-governmental organisations, agricultural advisory services and, in some cases, NGOs provide information on general health care issues, basic hygiene, nutrition and parenting (see also nutritional advice) on a national or regional basis. Thereby, diseases, especially of women and children shall be prevented and the population’s general health status be improved. Regular preventive measures (e.g. de-worming, vaccinations) are also carried out.

Requirements

• Close collaboration and knowledge sharing with schools
• Close cooperation and knowledge sharing with farmers' organisations
• Skilled / specialised personnel to man the respective institutions / provide the respective services
• Specialised courses at local universities
• Close cooperation and knowledge sharing with local advisory services
• Close cooperation and knowledge sharing with research institutions
• Clear responsibilities in public authorities

Possible Negative Effects

• Lack of qualified staff, particularly midwives and nutritionists
• The provision does not meet the needs of the population
• Discriminates against the rural population compared with the urban population
• Decentralised units are not properly funded