Coverage of Undernutrition Treatment Services

Coverage is the key indicator for the management of acute malnutrition. It measures the proportion of severely undernourished children (it can be also extended to women) who need treatment against those actually receiving treatment.

Coverage is assessed by SLEAC (Simplified Lot Quality Assurance Sampling Evaluation of Access and Coverage) or SQUEAC method (Semi-Quantitative Evaluation of Access and Coverage). Both methods are described in the guidance below, especially at the CMN website.

1) According to the SPHERE Standards, coverage is perceived as acceptable when it is more than 50% in rural areas; more than 70% in urban areas and more than 90% in a camp situation.

2) Coverage can also be calculated for MAM children receiving treatment in Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP).

3) Admission rates should be analyzed in order to identify if boys, girls, men, women are equally accessing nutrition services. If a group identified as potentially vulnerable, is not oriented to the nutrition centers, it is important to understand why this is (i.e. gender-based discrimination, mobility restrictions, etc.) and to take required actions.

4) With a larger team of enumerators, the data collection for both methods is relatively quick (can be completed in 6 working days); however, you also need to account for the time required for preparation, staff training and reporting. If you know how to conduct SLEAC / SQUEAC and do not face major logistical issues, the entire process incl. reporting should not take more than 15 working days of your time.

5) If your team does not have any experience with SLEAC or SQUEAC, inquire Coverage Monitoring Network for a consultant who can train your team and supervise the survey quality.

6) Coverage of Undernutrition Treatment Services is one of ECHO's Key Outcome Indicators (see below).