Manual for a Short Programme Review on reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health in the South-East Asia Region

Overview

The WHO South-East Asia Region is committed to accelerating improvements in reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health (RMNCAH) and achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets. Between 2015 and 2020, the Region achieved the world’s highest percentage reduction of maternal mortality. Five countries have already achieved the SDG mortality rate targets for children under five and newborns, and almost all other countries are on track. However, the Region is yet to attain 80% population-based coverage of essential RMNCAH interventions, which is critical to maintain momentum and ensure that no person or community is left behind.

To better understand gaps and challenges in RMNCAH programmes, short programme reviews (SPRs) are an essential tool. SPRs use data and information to assess programme performance/implementation status, inform decision-making, and refine the planning process. Ideally, the SPR process should be synchronized with the normal health sector planning process; however, it can be done at any point in the planning implementation cycle.