OBJECTIVES: to understand the factors that give rise to variations in the degree of implementation (DI) of the Schistosomiasis Control Program (SCP) in two municipalities in the Brazilian State of Pernambuco. METHODS: an implementation analysis was undertaken to evaluate the influence of the context the DI of the SCP. Structured questionnaires were used to interview SCP coordinators, health secretaries, and environmental health coordinators and agents. Research was also carried out using official records and direct observation. A points system was used to classify the DI of the SCP as implemented (90 to 100 points), partially implemented (60 to 89 points) and not implemented (< 59). RESULTS: the DI of the SCP in the first municipality was "not implemented" (52.85 points) and in the second municipality 'partially implemented' (63.65 points). The main impediments to the implementation of schistosomiasis control measures were lack of knowledge of how the SCP works, insufficient planning of control measures, low priority given to the program, insufficient infrastructure, and failure to include control measures in tools used to manage and centralize action. CONCLUSIONS: there is a need to rethink the way schistosomiasis is controlled and to contemplate integrated and equitable decentralization of action, with a view to moving beyond the existing paradigm.
Schistosomiasis mansoni; Program evaluation; Health policy
