UPSC-CMS 2018 — Community Medicine

Question 31: Which one of the following is an indicator for evaluation of impact of family planning?

• A. Community needs assessment
• B. Family size (Correct Answer)
• C. Number of postpartum services availed
• D. Change in behaviour of people

Explanation: ***Family size*** - This is a true **impact indicator** that measures the long-term effect of family planning programs on demographic outcomes. - A reduction in **average family size** over time directly reflects the program's effectiveness in helping individuals and couples achieve their desired number of children and birth spacing. - Impact indicators measure the ultimate goal of a program, and family size is one of the most important metrics alongside birth rate, fertility rate, and population growth rate. *Community needs assessment* - This is a **planning tool** used to **identify health needs and priorities** of a community, typically conducted *before* implementing a program. - It serves as a baseline for program design rather than an indicator of the *impact* of an already implemented family planning program. - This is part of the initial assessment phase, not an evaluation metric. *Number of postpartum services availed* - This is an **output/utilization indicator** that measures **service delivery** rather than program impact. - While important for monitoring service uptake, it does not directly evaluate the overall impact or effectiveness of family planning on birth rates or family size decisions. - Output indicators measure what was done, not the effect achieved. *Change in behaviour of people* - While behavioral changes (e.g., increased contraceptive use) are important, this option is too **broad and vague** to serve as a specific measurable indicator. - This could be considered a **process or intermediate outcome indicator** but is not a direct measure of program impact. - Changes in family size are a more concrete and quantifiable outcome reflecting the combined effect of behavioral changes.