The Ghana vasectomy initiative: facilitating client-provider communication on no-scalpel vasectomy

In 2003-2004 and 2007-2008, an initiative was implemented to improve client and provider knowledge and acceptance of no-scalpel vasectomy (NSV) in Ghana.

At eight facilities, physicians were trained in NSV and staff received training in the provision of "male-friendly" services. Health promotion activities provided NSV information to prospective clients. Client-provider communication was assessed via a mystery client study (n=6). Knowledge and acceptance of NSV among potential clients were assessed with baseline and follow-up surveys (each n=200) in 2003-2004 and three follow-up panel surveys in 2008 (each n=240).

Trained health staff exhibited improved attitudes and knowledge regarding NSV. Mystery clients reported receiving accurate, nonjudgmental NSV counseling. Awareness of NSV among panel respondents doubled from 31% to 59% in 2003-2004 and remained high (44%) in 2008. The proportion of men who would consider NSV increased from 10% to 19% in 2007-2008. NSV procedures increased three-fold from 2003 (n=26) to 2004 (n=83) and 2007 (n=18) to 2008 (n=53).

Provider training in client-centered services, coupled with targeted health promotion, improved client and provider knowledge and acceptance of NSV in an African context.

Complementary, sustained provider training and health promotion are needed to maintain NSV service quality and acceptance.