{"id":63037,"date":"2024-09-23T10:13:57","date_gmt":"2024-09-23T14:13:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.psi.org\/?p=63037"},"modified":"2024-09-23T12:06:40","modified_gmt":"2024-09-23T16:06:40","slug":"how-holistic-care-makes-health-systems-stronger","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.psi.org\/pt\/2024\/09\/how-holistic-care-makes-health-systems-stronger\/","title":{"rendered":"How holistic care makes health systems stronger"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Zamzam Arale Hassan, Research, Learning & Documentation Specialist,\u00a0Eden\u00a0Issak,\u00a0Senior M&E Specialist,\u00a0Abdiwahit\u00a0Jama, Senior community Health Specialist, PSI SOM\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In Somalia, the Marwo Caafimaad Program has emerged as a promising initiative, transforming community health while also strengthening the country\u2019s health systems. Over the past year, this initiative has equipped female health workers with the training, resources, and ongoing support to deliver essential healthcare services directly to the homes of those in need. This holistic approach ensures that healthcare is not only accessible and affordable but also deeply attuned to the specific needs of each community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Hidaya (FHW) treating Ali during her routine visit.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The program\u2019s impact is vividly illustrated through the story of Hidaya, a female health worker in the heart of Hamar Bile Village, Warta Nabada district of Mogadishu. Hidaya\u2019s unwavering commitment to her community and the Marwo Caafimaad Program\u2019s support have led to transformative outcomes, particularly in the case of Ali Dahir, a 10-year-old boy suffering from a severe skin disease on his scalp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During one of her routine visits, Hidaya encountered Ali, whose condition had left him in daily pain and discomfort. With her keen observational skills, empathy, and the training provided by the program, Hidaya took immediate action. She referred Ali to a health facility for comprehensive treatment, diligently cleaned his wounds with antiseptic, and ensured he adhered to a prescribed regimen of antibiotics and painkillers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hidaya\u2019s care extended beyond medical intervention; she became a pillar of support for Ali and his family. Understanding the importance of holistic care, she went the extra mile by purchasing anti-dandruff shampoo to maintain Ali\u2019s hygiene and closely monitored his recovery process. Her dedication not only alleviated Ali\u2019s suffering but also brought relief to his family, who were spared the burden of travel and hospital expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ali\u2019s father noted, \u201cMy child experienced daily pain and discomfort. Now, thanks to Allah and the efforts of Hidaya, my child has fully recovered and is healthy. The Marwo Caafimaad program and Hidaya have alleviated this burden.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This story underscores the Marwo Caafimaad Program\u2019s role in strengthening health systems in several critical ways. By building the capacity of female health workers like Hidaya, the program enhances the overall quality and effectiveness of healthcare delivery. The decentralized model of bringing healthcare services directly to communities\u2014particularly in remote and underserved areas\u2014addresses significant gaps in access and equity, ensuring that even the most vulnerable populations receive the care they need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, by reducing financial barriers and providing care within the community, the program prevents families from facing catastrophic health expenditures, thereby contributing to the sustainability of the healthcare system. The strong referral system, as demonstrated by Ali\u2019s case, ensures that patients receive appropriate levels of care, optimizing healthcare resources and improving patient outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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