The Multi-Country Evaluation of IMCI effectiveness, cost and impact, or MCE, has provided information to Ministries of Health and technical assistance partners about the barriers to IMCI implementation at ground level, the effects it has on health services and communities, how much it costs, and how many lives it can save. A special focus has been to improve the strategy in ways that will help countries achieve full and equitable coverage.

Twelve countries participated in the initial round of MCE assessments and data collection about IMCI implementation. More in-depth studies were conducted in five countries: Bangladesh, Brazil, Peru, Tanzania, and Uganda. In all countries but Bangladesh, the research has been completed and the results disseminated to governments, partners and the global public health community. The final impact assessment in Bangladesh is scheduled for 2007. 

Detailed descriptions of the MCE methods and results are available in various publications.

Leadership and guidance for the MCE has been provided by eight independent Technical Advisors.  The MCE Advisors met at least twice per year between 2000 and 2005 to assist WHO in setting priorities and assessing progress. Annual MCE meetings provide opportunities for site investigators to share experiences, findings and methodological challenges with each other as well as to interact with the Technical Advisors.