Community participation in health programmes

No clear operational definition of 'Community Participation' has emerged over the last decade of experimentation. One reason is the markedly contrasting perspectives that exist at different levels such as Aid Agencies, Ministry of Health, Government Health Programmes and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). A more pragmatic definition is "decision making at the community and different levels of providers". Clearly defined strategies are required for operationalizing this concept at different levels where grass-root level workers and the community are involved in managing health services. This paper provides a matrix which can be used for operationalizing this concept and evaluating participation. Strategies have been suggested for involving the community in various management processes of health delivery. The inputs required of the health system for operationalizing community participation are the same as those of an 'Information, Education Communication' (IEC) programme.