The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #66791

Larry Casazza, MD, MPH¹, Carolyn Daher, MPH¹, and Circe Trevant, MA, MPH, MHS². (1) The CORE Group, World Vision, 220 I Street NE Suite 230, Washington, DC 20002, 202 547-3743, larrycasazza@earthlink.net, (2) Health and Nutrition, Christian Children's Fund, 2821 Emerywood Parkway, Richmond, VA 23294

BACKGROUND: The CORE Group consists of 35 NGOs with grants in 140 countries, serving over 250 million children and women of child-bearing age, those most at-risk for malaria. As Roll Back Malaria increasingly focuses on sub-regional activities, it is valuable to understand current PVO participation and future potential. PURPOSE: To highlight the role of PVOs as key partners in the new RBM Global Initiative, and to demonstrate the unique advantages PVOs have as collaborators at the sub-regional level.

METHODS: CORE Group commissioned a review of PVO malaria country-level programs. RESULTS: CORE PVOs have integrated RBM activities into Child Survival Programs since 1996 including improved case management of malaria, promotion of IPT, and promotion and distribution of ITNs. They have developed local pilot projects that have influenced national and international malaria policy. CORE members are forming country and regional level RBM PVO/NGO partnerships to support RBM such as hosting Fresh Air workshops in East and West Africa regions, and conducting operational research crucial for scaling-up activities. CORE organizations are actively engaged with the private sector to address malaria education, improved access to quality drugs and ITN distribution.

DISCUSSION: PVOs use an integrated, collaborative approach driven by innovation and local information that serves a unique function within RBM. By bringing bottom-up programming that emphasizes local capacity-building, community mobilization, and sustainability, CORE members possess the experience and resources to help RBM respond to key recommendations from its evaluation. PVOs should address current challenges and continue developing a community-based framework for scaling-up RBM activities.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the current and potential role of CORE PVO/NGO organizations in the new Roll Back Malaria Initiative. Be aware ongoing programs at the country-level. Describe the unique and complimentary experience that CORE PVOs bring to RBM. Understand challenges and steps forward.

Keywords: Child Health, Developing Countries

Related Web page: www.coregroup.org

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.