Purpose: This project demonstrates the effectiveness of public-private sector partnerships for garnering new resources that increase access to IMCI services at the community level. Background: Mayan families migrating yearly from the highlands to low-lying plantations in the Boca Costa to harvest of Guatemala’s export coffee are at great risk of morbidity and mortality. Language and cultural factors, grueling work schedules, and lack of transport are barriers to seeking care. In partnership with the MOH, IGSS, NGOs, and private plantations, Project HOPE has implemented a model community-IMCI approach. Methods: Promoters on 150 plantations have been trained in community-IMCI. Participating plantations provide clinic space and stipends to the promoter. Patients are mainly seen during evening hours. Promoters report monthly to the closest MOH facility and receive a re-supply of IMCI drugs. They also discuss issues and receive refresher training. HOPE has established this system with its partners and has developed their capacity in training, supervision, monitoring, and logistics. Results: During the 2000 coffee harvest, 147 promoters managed 8,996 disease episodes in children < 5, mostly for ARIs and diarrheas. The promoter health units have also become focal points for MOH outreach activities (immunization) and education of mother’s groups. Nutrition interventions have remained weak, for reasons to be discussed. It can be assumed safely that many children would not have been seen at health facilities. Policy Implications: There are untapped opportunities for creative public-private sector partnerships that increase the participation of high-risk groups in essential health services and increase the impact of IMCI.
Learning Objectives: The audience will: 1. Gain a good understanding of the challenges of working with a large number of public and private partners. 2. Learn about approaches used to establish, support, and monitor a sustainable community IMCI approach.
Keywords: Access and Services, Migrant Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.