Khairun Nessa, a dedicated midwife working in Cox’s Bazar, expresses her enthusiasm for the recent training she received at the Cox’s Bazar Medical College’s multi-disciplinary skills lab, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO). The training focused on enhancing participants’ skills in resuscitating newborns and providing immediate postnatal care.
Addressing Healthcare Challenges
Cox’s Bazar faces significant healthcare challenges, particularly due to the massive influx of Rohingya refugees in 2017. The crowded camps and settlements house nearly a million displaced individuals, amplifying the need for healthcare services, especially for pregnant women and newborns.
Improving Maternal and Neonatal Health
Alarmingly, maternal and perinatal mortality rates have been distressingly high in the region. Recognizing this urgent need, WHO initiated a comprehensive Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) strategy to enhance healthcare outcomes. This strategy emphasizes the importance of continuous care and improved clinical skills among healthcare providers.
Practical Training for Healthcare Workers
The multi-disciplinary skills laboratory at Cox’s Bazar Medical College serves as a vital training hub for healthcare workers. Through structured and supervised teaching, participants gain hands-on experience in clinical procedures related to obstetric and newborn care. Rigorous evaluations ensure proficiency before applying learned skills in real-world scenarios.
Enhanced Healthcare Delivery
Dr. Shapla Khatun, a medical doctor, attests to the significant impact of the training on her clinical practice. With newfound skills, she has successfully managed complicated deliveries, reducing the need for referrals and improving patient outcomes. The training has instilled confidence and competence among participants, enabling them to deliver quality care to mothers and newborns.
Building Sustainable Healthcare Capacity
The collaboration between WHO and local institutions like Cox’s Bazar Medical College is crucial in strengthening healthcare capacity. Prof. Dr. Md. Farhad Hussain, Principal of the medical college, highlights the transformation of the skills lab into a center of excellence, bolstering community healthcare.
Sustaining Progress and Impact
WHO’s commitment extends beyond training sessions, with ongoing support and follow-up visits to monitor progress and ensure skill retention among healthcare workers. The positive feedback and success stories from participants underscore the tangible impact of the training on maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
A Collaborative Effort for Better Health
Dr. Jorge Martinez, Head of WHO Sub-office Cox’s Bazar, acknowledges the collective efforts of the government, partners, and healthcare workers in combating healthcare challenges in Cox’s Bazar. The continuous support from WHO aims to reinforce the government’s efforts in reducing preventable maternal and perinatal deaths.
As Cox’s Bazar navigates complex healthcare needs, WHO’s initiatives play a pivotal role in empowering healthcare providers and saving lives. Through collaborative efforts and sustained interventions, the region moves closer to ensuring access to quality healthcare for all.
