Table 3 Suggested local actions to improve routine immunization program coverage or quality, and potential contribution of emergency responses or campaigns, in rural Papua New Guinea
Local actions already proposed in the PNG government’s SIREP strategy | Potential contribution of emergency responses or campaigns |
Local planning based on populations rather than geography | Campaign coordinators help boost local routine planning capacity Mapping child populations and data-sharing |
Intensified quarterly outreach focused on higher clinic numbers properly resourced and implemented | Identify new outreach points, especially with population clusters Clarify options and costs for transport |
System for tracking unvaccinated children | Mapping child populations and data-sharing |
Integrated SIAs with additional vaccines, matching local priorities | Involve district level in planning Local flexibility in an expanded package of campaign services |
Supportive supervision linked to refresher training including good communications and AEFIs | Distribute resources to staff Use campaign monitoring to collect staff priorities for capacity development |
Trained lay health workers (health volunteers) to track births and children, support outreach clinics and promote uptake at static clinics | Campaign organisation that promotes local involvement Leverage campaign supports to enlist long-term interest and support |
Local actions that go beyond the PNG government’s SIREP strategy | Potential contribution of emergency responses or campaigns |
Standardise every opportunity for vaccination, by policy, training and accessibility of vaccine supplies | Not easily addressed by emergency responses or campaigns |
Health communication products and programs to educate families on the complete vaccine schedule | Distribute family-oriented communications materials promoting catch-up vaccination |
Test models of integrated services, responsive to community preferences | Not easily addressed by emergency responses or campaigns |
Review of staff roles and functions to optimise allocations and workload | Minimise incentives that discourage outreach as part of routine programs |