June 4th 2005 Meeting Summary

The purpose of the Network Exchange and the launch was described.
The purpose of the Network Exchange is to serve as a way for networks to communicate with each other and with the RH/FP community, to collaborate and share information, problems, ideas and solutions. The Network Exchange is also an on-line resource and serves as an entryway to PSP-One resources and technical assistance. The launch was to elicit input from networks on what will be helpful to them and in what manner.

Presentation of Preliminary Findings from the Technical Review
See the Powerpoint presentation – The Role of Private Provider Networks in Expanding the Supply of RH/FP Services.

Network Exchange, PSP-One Technical Assistance, Tools, and Resources Feedback
Participants were introduced to the PSP-One website, the Network Resource Navigator (NRN) and related tools. Suggestions were solicited on ways to improve future Network Exchange meetings. These were:

• Set meeting format to monthly one hour meetings on a specific topic, identified in advance
• Conduct meetings in French and Spanish – perhaps regional meetings, tailoring language and date/time
• Create listserv for networks to continue the conversation
• Devise a web-based training curriculum for networks
• Utilize in-country resources and facilitate Training of Trainer sessions

PSP-One Technical Assistance
In general, the point was made that it is important to first a) identify the real training needs of commercial and non-profit networks b) draw on and pool existing resources, c) think about how to sustain any training that is provided.

Suggested Topics for Future Network Exchange Discussions

Strengthening Network Viability
• Clarifying benefits and obligations between the parents and members
• Developing marketing and branding strategies, including health services market analysis
• Accessing credit
• Testing alternate financing mechanisms (vouchers, government contracts, etc)
• Improving product procurement and capacity Service Mix and Quality

Service Mix and Quality
• Moving beyond family planning
• Integrating RH/FP with other services
• Understanding national and international quality standards

Policy and Regulations
• Sharing common regulatory bottlenecks and ways to overcome these

Scaling Up of Services
• Building partnerships and creating centers of influence
• Transitioning from a social to a commercial franchise

Network Management
• Basic business management practices to increase efficiencies
• How to expand and maintain control as a network is expanded

Next Steps
• Create schedule of topics, meeting dates, and times for distribution to members.
• Create an advisory committee to the Network Exchange – invite all participants to the launch to join.
• Refine the technology to ensure better audio.
• Place participation instructions on the web site.
• Set the next date and invite larger audience.

List of Participants

Meeting Agenda for June 4th 2005 Meeting

Meeting Presentation

Network Exchange Research Navigator

Sample Tools from the Network Research Navigator