Evaluation of a Skilled Birth Attendant pilot training program in Bangladesh

OBJECTIVES: An evaluation of the pilot project of the Skilled Birth Attendant (SBA) training program has been undertaken to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the training program, the after training performances of the selected SBAs and to ascertain the sustainability of the program. METHODS: The study was conducted in three phases adopting both qualitative and quantitative methods: assessment of training program; evaluation of after training performances of SBAs; and evaluation of performance of providers in non-SBA areas. RESULTS: During the post-training period it was observed that on an average the SBAs performed 3-4 deliveries per month. They were able to perform different life saving skills. In the areas served by the SBAs, they performed 29% deliveries and 47% were performed by the TBAs. In control areas TBAs performed 61% deliveries. CONCLUSION: Overall, the study points to the efficacy of SBAs over traditional hands and the societal need for SBAs.