Estimating program coverage in the treatment of severe acute malnutrition: a comparative analysis of the validity and operational feasibility of two methods

Abstract

Coverage of many health programs can be assessed using cluster survey methods, but coverage estimates for nutrition programs present special challenges due to the low prevalence of disease and often limited resources for data collection. Since 2012, the Semi-Quantitative Evaluation of Access and Coverage (SQUEAC) methodology has been widely used to assess the coverage of SAM treatment programs [8]. The sample size for a Stage 3 likelihood survey, however, is small, and any resulting estimate would be less precise than desired. [...]when there is uneasiness around the prior development process, a larger likelihood sample size may be considered. [...]if a coverage estimate is not a priority but qualitative information on barriers and boosters is more important for program monitoring and improvement, then a standalone qualitative assessment (e.g., SQUEAC Stages 1 and 2 or a community assessment) can be conducted. [...]we present individual prior estimates developed by a range of participant sources, including local program staff and caregivers who may lack the necessary expertise, training, or objectivity to develop an accurate prior.