Mobile for Reproductive Health (M4RH)

Image: 

Geography: 

Kenya

Status: 

Ongoing

URL: 

http://www.fhi360.org/en/Research/Projects/Progress/GTL/mobile_tech.htm

Affiliated Organizations: 

Family Health International (FHI)

Technology: 

Text to Change

Dates: 

2010-present

M4RH delivers sets of text messages regarding family planning methods. The messages contain evidence-based information from sources, including the World Health Organization family planning handbook for providers, crafted specifically for short message service or text message use. Each message is designed and tested to ensure user comprehension within the 160 character limit. The M4RH system also provides service delivery information, so users can locate clinics to provide more information and the family planning method of their choice. FHI designed and developed the interactive platform for easy navigation and use in sub-Saharan Africa, working with Text to Change. Health care providers offer posters, palm cards, and flyers that publicize the access codes for free information via text on general reproductive health information, eight contraceptive methods, and clinic locations. The service was launched in April 2010 through Marie Stopes and Family Health Options of Kenya clinics in Nairobi, and is also available in Tanzania (in Swahili).