Substantial gains with existing resources: the Tongan experience

JOICFP Rev. 1986 Nov:12:26-7.

Abstract

PIP: Tonga has a relatively high rate of population growth that is moderated by emigration. There has been a decline in fertility, however. Family planning was introduced in Tonga during the 1950s. The Tongan Family Planning Association (TFPA) is a non-government organization established and recognized by the Tongan government. The Japanese Organization for International Cooperation in Family Planning (JOICEP) approved of and funded an integrated TFPA-JOICEP project on health education and family planning motivation as well as a national seminar. TFPA projects for 1986 include: youth development; women's development; men's development; and health education, family planning motivational integrated approaches in development and family planning. A station wagon serves as a mobile clinic. A doctor and his staff hold clinics or meet with women in the villages to demonstrate contraceptive use and to discuss reproduction and fertilization. Other organizations which provide FP services are: the Government Health Services and the MCH Department; the Catholic Mission; and the Seventh Day Adventist Mission. Tongan health services are largely a governmental responsibility and are provided free of charge. There are 4 main hospitals and 6 health centers with a total of 325 hospital beds.

MeSH terms

  • Communication*
  • Delivery of Health Care
  • Developing Countries
  • Education
  • Family Planning Services
  • Health
  • Health Education*
  • Health Planning*
  • Health Services*
  • Information Services*
  • Organization and Administration
  • Organizations*
  • Pacific Islands
  • Polynesia
  • Research*
  • Tonga
  • Voluntary Health Agencies*