Guidelines for monitoring the availability and use of obstetric services. 2nd ed.

The World Summit for Children Plan of Action which seeks to reduce maternal mortality by half between 1990 and 2000 directs each country to establish appropriate mechanisms for the regular collection analysis and dissemination of data on program indicators. The conventional approach to monitoring progress uses repeated measurements of maternal mortality rates and ratios to assess trends over time. This manual outlines an alternative approach more applicable to developing countries where no comprehensive vital registration system is available. This approach is based on monitoring the processes or interventions aimed at reducing maternal mortality. Use of process indicators can help program managers identify priority issues and interventions and alert managers of areas that require strengthening. This manual outlines a series of process indicators that assess the availability use and quality of obstetric services and provides guidance on data collection and interpretation. An overall goal of this approach is to strengthen national capacity for data-led decision-making.