Access to quality healthcare services in rural areas is a challenge faced by many countries, including Ethiopia, where over 75% of the population resides in hard-to-reach communities. Infrastructure limitations such as power outages and inadequate medical equipment hinder the delivery of essential health services.
In an effort to address these challenges, JSI has collaborated closely with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health for more than three decades. By partnering with the Gates Foundation, JSI has implemented projects like Strengthening Service Delivery (SSD) and Improve Primary Health Care Service Delivery (IPHCSD) to bolster primary healthcare access in rural regions by enhancing care quality and infrastructure.
Recently, JSI equipped 23 health facilities across nine regions in Ethiopia with solar panel accessories and portable ultrasound machines. These initiatives aim to support rural health centers in providing crucial reproductive, maternal, and child health services. The provision of sustainable power supply ensures that essential medical equipment, including ultrasound machines, operate effectively to deliver optimal patient care.
Ultrasound machines play a vital role in reducing maternal mortality rates and improving infant survival. By offering obstetric ultrasound services, health facilities can detect potential risks early, leading to better health outcomes for mothers and babies. In areas like Gimbo Woreda and Legambo Woreda, the introduction of ultrasound services has resulted in increased antenatal care attendance and earlier pregnancy check-ups.
Midwives trained by JSI are now able to operate these ultrasound machines efficiently, enhancing the quality of care in underserved communities. For instance, in Genete Health Center, which faced challenges due to limited access to ultrasound services, the acquisition of a machine has led to improved ANC attendance and better pregnancy monitoring.
Looking ahead, JSI’s projects are focused on strengthening governance and investment in primary healthcare access in rural areas. Initiatives such as providing motorbikes to improve communication and collaboration among health facilities aim to enhance the capacity of health workers and ensure essential commodities are readily available.
By working collaboratively on projects like SSD and IPHCSD, JSI is committed to improving healthy pregnancy outcomes and promoting safe deliveries of infants. These efforts are crucial in ensuring that every mother and child, regardless of their location, receives the necessary care to thrive and survive.
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