No abstract

Background: The Ministry of Health and Medical Education in the Islamic Republic of Iran has undertaken a reform of its health system, in which-lower level managers are given new roles and responsibilities in a decentralized system. To support these efforts, a United Kingdom-based university was contracted by the World Health Organization to design a series of courses for health managers and trainers. This process was also intended to develop the capacity of the National Public Health Management Centre in Tabriz, Iran, to enable it to organize relevant short courses in health management on a continuing basis. A total of seven short training courses were implemented, three in the United Kingdom and four in Tabriz, with 35 participants. A detailed evaluation of the courses was undertaken to guide future development of the training programmes.

Giving birth remains a dangerous endeavour for many of the world's women. Progress to improve this has been slow in sub-Saharan Africa. The second delay, where transport infrastructure is key in allowing a woman to reach care, has been a relatively neglected field of study. Six eRanger motorbike ambulances, specifically engineered for use on poor roads in resource-poor situations were provided in 2006 as part of an emergency referral system in rural Sierra Leone. The aim of this study was to evaluate the implementation of this referral system in terms of its use, acceptability and accessibility. Data were collected from usage records, and a series of semi-structured interviews and focus groups conducted to provide deeper understanding of the service. A total of 130 records of patients being transported to a health facility were found, 1/3 of which were for obstetric cases. The ambulance is being used regularly to transport patients to a health care facility. It is well known to the communities, is acceptable and accessible, and is valued by those it serves. District-wide traditional birth attendant training and the sensitisation activities provided a foundation for the introduction of the ambulance service, creating a high level of awareness of the service and its importance, particularly for women in labour. Motorbike ambulances are suited to remote areas and can function on poor roads inaccessible to other vehicles.