Supporting Task Shifting and Task Sharing in Nigeria: An Assessment of Family Planning Knowledge Retention of Community Pharmacists and Patent Proprietary Medicine Vendors

Abstract Background: CPs and PPMVs are an important source of modern contraceptives in Nigeria, yet many lack the requisite knowledge and skills to capably provide these services. This skills gap might be addressed through targeted family planning training. This study measures family planning knowledge retention of CPs and PPMVs after receiving training in FP counseling and services in Kaduna and Lagos States, in Nigeria. Methods: As part of the evaluation study, 559 CPs and PPMVs completed a self-administered questionnaire to assess their knowledge related to the provision of FP counseling, and injectable and implant contraceptive services at three points in time: 1) before the training; 2) immediately after the training; and 3) 9-months after the training. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the effect of provider characteristics and receipt of job aids on FP knowledge retention 9 months after the trainingResults: The study revealed the importance of jobs aids as influence on knowledge retention. CPs and PPMVs who reported having the Balanced Counseling Strategy plus (BCS+) counseling cards, were more likely to retain knowledge (AOR: 2.92; 95% CI: 1.01-8.40) at 9 months follow-up. Similarly, in terms of injectable knowledge, CPs and Tier 2 PPMVs who reported receiving the Medical Eligibility Criteria (MEC) Wheel were 2.1 times more likely to retain injectable knowledge 9-months later on (95% CI: 1.14-3.99). Conclusion: CPs and PPMVs can be trained to offer FP counseling and injectable and implant services. Their knowledge can be supported through job aids, suggesting that they offer accurate information and quality services. For Nigeria, including Family planning job aids in the roll out of the task shifting and task sharing policy will be critical to a successful implementation.