External Monitoring Cell for Immunization in Rajasthan

Agency : UNICEF Rajasthan

An External Monitoring Cell (EMCI) was set up at lIHMR to monitor the immunization program (sessions, cold chains, logistics and progress) in all the 33 districts of Rajasthan. The monitors visit randomly selected PHCs and four session sites on MCHN day i.e. on every Thursday of the week. Moreover, they have to visit the district headquarters once every month to see the cold chain and logistics. Monitors are also monitored by the EMCI team. The data is then analyzed and classified into three reports, namely the detailed report, the state report and the district-wise report. The state report is sent to the state higher authorities, the detailed report is sent to the authorities next to the state authorities and the district report is sent to the district authorities. There is a review meeting for the monitors every two months at lIHMR with the aim of improving the quality of monitoring.

The external monitoring shows an improvement in inputs, logistics and quality and coverage of immunization. There is a change in the working of the whole immunization system because of the EMCI. The health workers have started showing more attention at the session sites because of the external monitoring. The quality of the cold chain and the availability of logistics have improved in the district as well as at the PHC level. The elaborate system of data management and submission of updated monthly reports within the stipulated time at the three levels have helped address the problems in logistics as well as in the cold chain maintenance. It has also helped to improve the functioning of the immunization program in Rajasthan.


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