The impact of polio eradication on routine immunization and primary health care: a mixed-methods study.

Background: After 2 decades of focused efforts to eradicate polio, the impact of eradication activities on health systems continues to be controversial. This study evaluated the impact of polio eradication activities on routine immunization (RI) and primary healthcare (PHC).

Methods: Quantitative analysis assessed the effects of polio eradication campaigns on RI and maternal healthcare coverage.

Methods for evaluating the impact of vertical programs on health systems: protocol for a study on the impact of the global polio eradication initiative on strengthening routine immunization and primary health care.

Background: The impact of vertical programs on health systems is a much-debated topic, and more evidence on this complex relationship is needed. This article describes a research protocol developed to assess the relationship between the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, routine immunization, and primary health care in multiple settings.

Methods/design: This protocol was designed as a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods, making use of comparative ethnographies.