Improving Emergency Care

Location: Gaza Strip

Situation:

Despite Norodom Sihamoni s recent succession to the throne after the abdication of his father Norodom Sihanouk, who had been monarch since 1941, the Phnom Penh regime continues to be characterised by authoritarianism and corruption. The influence of religion and the widespread system of prebends, particularly in relation to natural resources, puts the economic future of the kingdom at risk. More than a third of the population lives below the poverty line and AIDS is endemic, with prevalence rate of two percent. The government has recognised this as a public health priority.

Activities:

MdM aims to improve emergency medical treatment by:
• First aid training, particularly schoolchildren of the United National Relief and Work Agency (UNRWA) schools;
• A ‘training for trainers’ course for 74 paramedics from UNRWA health centres
• A ‘training for trainers’ programme with the Palestinian Red Crescent ambulance staff in Gaza and Ramallah;
• Development of a reference ‘Plan for an influx of sick or injured patients’ with the emergency department of Shifa Hospital;
• Exceptional donations of medicines to Shifa Hospital and of hospital surgical equipment to the Ministry of Health.

Outlook:

To continue the programme and develop primary healthcare activities, supporting the Ministry of Health and local NGOs.

Project start date: 2002