The
Accelerating Convergence Efforts Through Systems Strengthening for Maternal and
Newborn Health (AcCESS for MNH), a project of the World Health Organization Sub
National Initiative (WHO SNI) in partnership with the Department of Health
Regional Office XI (DOH RO XI), shared its insights and experiences in
addressing maternal and newborn health challenges in Davao Region in a forum
entitled “Stories from the Field: Walang Nanay at Sanggol ang Mamamatay dahil
sa Panganganak” (No mother and newborn shall die from childbirth-related
causes) in Davao City.
The forum
was an avenue for project partners to take stock of what was done so far, and
re-evaluate what works and what doesn’t. It was an opportunity to share early
wins, insights, and experiences in implementing activities and strategies on
maternal and newborn health. Various stakeholders such as barangay officials,
community leaders, barangay health workers, midwives, and other health service
providers committed to continuously work together to improve maternal and
neonatal health in Davao Region.
AcCESS
for MNH is a three-year project launched in 2015 with funding support from the
Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). It is part of WHO’s Sub
National Initiative to model a systematic and evidence-based approach in
improving implementation of the country’s Universal Health Care at community
level, capitalizing on WHO’s core function as a global leader in public health.
AcCESS for MNH seeks to provide catalytic technical and advisory support to DOH
RO XI and partner local government units (LGUs) to accelerate convergence of
efforts for the health and survival of mothers and newborns, especially among
the most disadvantaged populations. It aims to strengthen health systems and
governance, establish a functional network of services, and improve utilization
of quality maternal and newborn services in the neediest communities in the
region, towards the overarching goal of reducing maternal and neonatal deaths
in Davao Region. It is being implemented in ten LGUs in the four provinces of
Davao as follows: Malita, Sta. Maria, and Don Marcelino in Davao Occidental;
Maco, Mabini, and Pantukan in Compostela Valley; Tagum City and New Corella in
Davao del Norte; and Manay and Caraga in Davao Oriental.
The
forum, held last February 9, was attended by DOH Assistant Secretary Dr. Nestor
Santiago, KOICA Deputy Director Heesoo Hong and Health Specialist Dr Michelle
Apostol, DOH RO XI Regional Director Dr. Abdullah B. Dumama Jr. and Assistant
RD Dr. Annabelle Yumang, WHO Philippines Technical Officers led by Dr Benjamin
Lane and Ms Lucille Angela Nievera, other DOH officials, municipal mayors,
Provincial Health Officers, DOH Representatives, and community health service
providers.
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