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Qualitative methods in operations research on contraceptive distribution systems: a case study from Nigeria
G Webb1, O A Ladipo, R McNamara
1Center for Population and Family Health, New York, NY 10032.
Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Market traders in Nigeria successfully distributed contraceptives, demonstrating the cultural acceptability and effectiveness of community-based family planning programs. This study highlights the importance of social networks and institutional partnerships in enhancing service delivery.
Area of Science:
- Operations Research
- Public Health
- Family Planning
Background:
- Qualitative methods are crucial for understanding complex health service delivery systems.
- Operations research can optimize family planning programs by integrating community-based approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the application of qualitative methods in operations research for a family planning service delivery system.
- To investigate the cultural acceptability and trader motivations for distributing contraceptives in market settings.
Main Methods:
- Focus group discussions, participant observation, and semi-structured interviews were employed.
- Trained market traders in Ibadan, Nigeria, distributed oral contraceptives, condoms, and spermicidal foaming tablets.
Main Results:
- Cultural acceptability of contraceptive distribution in markets was high.
- Strong market associations facilitated project acceptance.
- Higher customer volume for other goods positively correlated with contraceptive sales.
- Traders were motivated by the prestige of associating with a reputable health institution.
Conclusions:
- Qualitative research provides valuable insights for quantitative studies in operations research, and vice versa.
- Community-based distribution through market traders is a viable strategy for family planning services.
- Understanding socio-cultural factors and trader motivations is key to successful program implementation.