The Programme Guidance Tool (PGT) facilitates an action-oriented process that can be used by decision-makers to set goals and directions and to prioritize interventions for addressing the problem of reproductive tract infections (RTIs), including sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The tool is based on the Strategic Approach methodology used to strengthen reproductive health policies and programmes.
The PGT approach consists of ten steps. The first eight steps amount to a strategic assessment of the current situation, on the basis of which strategic recommendations can be made. In Step 9, the strategic recommendations are implemented, and in Step 10, those recommendations found to be effective are implemented on an expanded scale.
The PGT is designed for use by anyone involved in decision-making at national or regional level for RTI/STI programmes. Programme managers who are ultimately responsible for programme design and delivery usually lead the all-inclusive process. The method can be adapted for use by anyone concerned with evidence-based programme planning in a particular country context. The main criterion for being involved in a PGT process is a commitment to seeing the resulting strategic recommendations implemented.