HLFPPT develops unique online device to monitor pregnancy test card and IUCD programmes

Tracking implementation of the Intra Uterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) and Pregnancy Test Card for women in India's rural hinterland has become easier with HLFPPT launching a unique software device that effectively monitors the functioning of these family planning devices and also tracks the performance of Health Service Providers (HSPs).

The Computerised Monitoring Information System (CMIS), developed by Hindustan Latex Family Planning Promotion Trust (HLFPPT), assesses online the progress of its large-scale, multi-state programme on IUCD and Pregnancy Test Card (Nischay), being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW).

More importantly, the CMIS enables performance tracking of HSPs up to the block level and of IUCD clients up to the village level, thus ensuring regular monitoring by the teams of the Central and state governments under the National Health Mission (NHM).

The IUCD is currently operational in 11 states - Haryana, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Odisha, J&K and Uttarakhand since 2012. The 'Nischay' Pregnancy Test card (PTC), manufactured by HLL Lifecare Ltd (HLL), was launched in all states and Union Territories in 2008.

The software, a sophisticated online data collection and compilation tool, has four input modules where HLFPPT enters details and prepare reports accordingly. The input modules are: HSPs training details, IUCD client registration, client follow-up and health facility follow-up.

Sharad Agarwal, CEO, HLFPPT said the CMIS has a user-friendly interface and is used by the state-level project staff to track trainees up to the block level and beneficiaries up to the village level. It also enables national and state-level stakeholders for independent monitoring of the project.