UNFPA and PAHO/WHO Partner to Improve Access to Healthcare in Port-au-Prince, Haiti

As the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) have come together to support three hospitals in Port-au-Prince metropolitan area, they are working towards improving access to healthcare. This effort comes in response to the emergency situation faced by the Ministry of Health and Population (MSPP), which has made it increasingly difficult for people to access medical services.

One of the hospitals benefiting from this partnership is Eliazar Germain Hospital, which will receive essential medical equipment and supplies, as well as a reliable power supply system. The hospital’s medical director, Dr. Francito Datus, explains that this support will enable them to provide crucial obstetric and neonatal care and respond to emergencies at any time.

A direct beneficiary of this collaboration is Josépha, a young mother of twins who recently underwent a successful Caesarean section at Eliazar Germain Hospital. She expresses her gratitude for the excellent care she received and emphasizes that this assistance is crucial in reducing the cost of childbirth, allowing pregnant women to give birth in a safe environment with qualified personnel present.

Since the collaboration began, the three hospitals have recorded 62 physiological deliveries and 45 Caesarean sections. This assistance is vital in improving access to maternal health services and reducing the risk of maternal and newborn mortality. UNFPA Representative in Haiti, Philippe Degernier, highlights the importance of providing quality care to pregnant women beyond just maternity services.

The UNFPA and PAHO/WHO are also addressing urgent needs in sexual and reproductive health by distributing kits for managing abortion complications and sexual violence. This extends their support beyond just maternal health services.

Overall, this collaboration between UNFPA, PAHO/WHO, MSPP aims to improve healthcare access for people facing emergency situations by providing essential medical equipment