Preliminary Assessment of the Implementation of the Health Services Extension Program: The case of Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to generate usable information on the implementation of the newly initiated Health Services Extension Program in Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted in seven administrative zones of SNNPR in February 2008. It was found out that average achievement of construction of health posts, certified role model households and deployment of health extension workers were 78%, 4.3% and 63%, respectively. Both achievements and challenges were observed in the implementation of the program. Since the program is at its stage of infancy, it needs due attention towards the endeavors of the program by all concerned bodies and partners striving to see improved health status of the population.