ABSTRACT
This paper presents details from the field test of two rapid surveys in Ecuador in 1995. It focuses on how the surveys were designed and implemented, including descriptions of the sampling procedures, the preparation and use of preprogrammed palmtop computers for data entry, the selection criteria for the interviewing team, and how the training was designed. Lessons are drawn that will assist health professionals plan and carry out better rapid data collection in the future. The objective of the study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of data gathered during the rapid surveys as compared with a recent "gold standard" national survey. A two-way factorial design was used to control for differences in sampling (probability versus quasi-probability) and methods of data collection (paper versus palmtop computer). Few differences were detected between the surveys done on palmtops as compared to paper ones, but urban and rural differentials in contraceptive use were less pronounced in the rapid surveys than in the earlier, national survey. This suggests that caution should be exercised in interpreting the disaggregated data in these rapid surveys. In-depth interviews revealed two features of the rapid surveys that were especially popular: the palmtops for their speed of data entry, and the short questionnaire for its "low impact" on a respondent's time. The common belief that computers would disturb respondents was not found to be the case. Even with no computer experience, the interviewers rapidly mastered the new technology.
Subject(s)
Contraception Behavior , Fertility , Population Surveillance , Adult , Computers , Data Interpretation, Statistical , Ecuador , Female , Humans , Interviews as Topic , Male , Reproducibility of Results , Rural Population , Sampling Studies , Urban PopulationABSTRACT
PIP: The authors examine migration from highland areas of Ecuador to the capital, Quito. Aspects considered include household characteristics, the situation of migrants before moving, and reasons for migrating.^ieng
Subject(s)
Family Characteristics , Motivation , Population Dynamics , Transients and Migrants , Americas , Behavior , Demography , Developing Countries , Ecuador , Emigration and Immigration , Latin America , Population , Psychology , South AmericaABSTRACT
PIP: Implications of population growth in Ecuador for the quality of life of the poor population are analyzed. It is argued that if the gross national product (GNP) were to grow at a sustained annual rate of 5% or more, demographic trends would not present a significant obstacle to reducing poverty. National economic projections are for growth of only 2.5-3.5% annually. The continuing rapid growth of the poor population despite general slowing of demographic growth, the young age structure, the need for increased formal education to enable the poor to overcome their poverty, and the effect of unemployment on the dependency ratio will tend to hamper improvements in average productivity and per capita GNP. The need for spending on education, health, basic services, and housing will divert funds away from productive investment, generating a direct negative impact on economic growth. Over half of Ecuadorian children suffer from some degree of malnutrition, indicating that food production is inadequate to meet demand. The export-oriented agricultural policy and poor weather have led to a chronic shortage of basic foods. Progressive increase and diversification of agricultural production, along with maintenance of low prices and substantial increases in income levels and agricultural productivity, will be required if the entire population is to be fed adequately. Intense efforts will be needed from all sectors to bring demographic growth into balance with economic and development needs.^ieng
Subject(s)
Economics , Efficiency , Population Density , Population Growth , Poverty , Americas , Demography , Developing Countries , Ecuador , Latin America , Organization and Administration , Population , Population Dynamics , Socioeconomic Factors , South AmericaABSTRACT
Financial options for the National Health System in Mexico are discussed in this paper. In the first part the conceptual elements needed to support financing schemes are presented. The second part deals with financing models of the National Health System. Finally, a map of financing proposals are discussed with the aim of enriching the financial options of the health sector.
Subject(s)
Delivery of Health Care/economics , Financing, Organized/methods , MexicoABSTRACT
This paper discusses the conditions that force the countries in Latin America and the Caribbean to design and produce vaccines for the most common infectious diseases in the Region on a regional basis. The authors discuss as well the goals and strategies of the Regional System for the Production of Vaccines in Latin America, its possible structure and economic feasibility.