Ambulatory Maternal Health Care and Family Planning Services

Book excerpt: Abstract: Guidelines, developed by the APHA's Committee on Maternal Care and Family Planning, are presented to assist health professionals in planning, implementing, and evaluating ambulatory maternal health care and family planning services. Three basic correctible problems are identified. The primary focus of these guidelines is directed towards those reproductive services influencing the outcome of pregnancy. Topics include: prenatal, postpartum, and interconceptional care, family planning; adolescent pregnancy; health education; nutrition and social services; and human resource, facilities, equipment, and supplies needs. For each type of service discussed, both general and specific guidelines are offered. A discussion of consumer rights and participation is included. Evaluative guidelines, literature references, and a discussion of community administration and organization are appended. (wz).