Background
Facilitating uptake of immediate postpartum family planning (PPFP) through a community volunteer transport scheme (CVTS) in rural and hard-to-reach areas is a High Impact Practice (HIP), that contributes to reduced episodes of unintended pregnancies and closely spaced births which are public health concerns as they are associated with increased maternal, newborn, and child morbidity and mortality[1].
Materials and Method
A landscape assessment across 14 wards in Nasarawa Eggon local government area (LGA) sought to understand existing transportation structures within the community, women's health-seeking behavior during maternal emergencies, and identification of areas with difficult terrains. A stakeholders' orientation meeting across 6 of the 14 wards identified to meet the criteria for CVTS intervention was conducted following the assessment. Eighteen (18) volunteer drivers were trained on the concept of providing emergency transport services and integrated with other community health volunteers and health facilities within their domain.
Results
Findings from the 11 months intervention (October 2021 to August 2022) showed that volunteer drivers were enthusiastic and motivated to provide voluntary services for their communities. Over this period, 553 clients (370 women and 183 children) were transported to facilities for the uptake of post-abortion care and Reproductive, Maternal, Neonatal, and Child health services. 13% (48) of women were transported for the uptake of immediate postpartum family planning services following a home delivery.
Conclusion
Community volunteer transport scheme is a key solution to the transportation barrier faced in many rural and hard-to-reach communities. Programs utilizing CVTS to improve access to maternal health care should explore the potential of increasing their reach by integrating the scheme with demand-side interventions, especially engagement with traditional birth attendants, traditional and religious leaders.
