Table 1 Description of VHT productivity and performance measures

Visiting village members

1. The number of homes/families visited by VHT

2. Time taken to complete a typical home visit

Assessment of how well a home visit is conducted by a VHT, based on

1. Whether family members were receptive to the visit

2. Whether the purpose of the visit is explained to household members

3. Whether health behavior changes are agreed upon jointly with household members

4. Whether families agree to implement suggested change

5. Whether the VHT plans a follow-up visit to check if changes are made

This was summarized into what percent of the five tasks a VHT successfully completed.

Helping save lives

Assessing danger signs in children and pregnant mothers

1. Number of children evaluated for danger signs

2. Number of pregnant mothers evaluated for danger signs

3. Time taken to complete activities

Percent agreement of the VHT and gold standard clinician in identifying danger signs in a child (< 5 years of age)

Percent agreement of the VHT and gold standard clinician in identifying danger signs in a pregnant woman