Interpersonal Communication for Immunisation Package (IPC/I), Global Project
Center in Pakistan together with its parent organisation Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs developed an Interpersonal Communication for Immunisation (IPC/I) package for UNICEF to help improve vaccination acceptance and ensure that babies and children are immunised according to the World Health Organization's recommended schedule. The package will assist frontline workers, i.e. vaccinators, to effectively use participatory communication methods to address barriers to immunisation uptake, such as ensuring community members appreciate the benefits of immunisation, know when and where to bring their children for timely vaccinations, and understand how to manage vaccine side-effects. They will also be better able to advocate with community and health system leaders to prevent stock-outs and expired vaccines, fund outreach services, and support tracking dropouts and missed children.
The IPC/I package for the frontline workers is developed through following the human centred design approach and finalised after proof of concept at every stage of the design process. The package includes following seven components:
Facilitator's guide
This includes facilitation tips and information to support efficient and effective use of the participant handbook and is intended for both trainers and master trainers. The Guide provides instructions for trainers and master trainers on how to conduct training sessions—including logistics for training, adult learning approaches, facilitating discussions, leading group work, and role plays.
Participant handbook
This includes directions for effective interpersonal communication, understanding immunization concepts, reaching out to the community, and other topics. This content is organized around modeling and practical skills essential for FLWs through exercises and role plays.
Community recognition system
This includes a step-by-step process for setting up a community recognition system and outline low-cost methods for FLWs to recognize each other, individuals, and communities for their contributions to immunizing children.
In addition to the above material, following are also part of the package:
All components within the IPC/I package were designed using adult- and peer-learning and participatory technologies—including experiential learning—using a suite of learning modalities for strengthening the capacity of the FLW in IPC/I and provided in a professional editable format.
Dr. Sarah Khokhar
sarah@ccp-pakistan.org.pk