The training and use of nonphysicians (paramedicals, auxiliary and traditional workers) in the delivery of family planning services is reviewed.  Some advantages of utilizing nonphysicians include: 1) physician time is freed from routine tasks, 2) nonphysicians with specialized training may perform a particular task better than a nonspecialized physician, 3) they are widely accepted in  many countries, 4) they are competent when thoroughly trained and well supervised, 5) their services can be applied in areas where physicians are scarce, 6) their services are inexpensive, and 7) they understand the customs and attitudes of  the people they serve.  The distribution of condoms and oral contraceptives, administration of injectable contraceptives, the fitting of diaphragms and cervical caps, insertion of intrauterine devices, performing pregnancy terminations, and the performing of  sterilizations are some of the services nonphysicians are providing.  It is rare to find nonphysicians performing sterilizations, though in some countries this is accepted after extensive training.  In several countries nonphysicians are being trained to perform vasectomy.  A directory of selected regional and international nonphysician training agencies, with details of each program, is appended.