Assessing and strengthening community health systems in the Middle East and North Africa region
hera has been selected by UNICEF for the project in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, titled "Community Health Systems – Policy and Implementation Landscape Assessment.
In a region marked by prolonged conflicts and crises, the MENA region has seen its healthcare systems significantly strained. Disrupted services, damaged infrastructure, and the displacement of healthcare professionals have left these systems vulnerable, particularly in the face of infectious diseases and other health threats.
Amidst these challenges, community health systems, particularly primary healthcare, have emerged as essential lifelines for delivering crucial services and improving health outcomes. At the heart of these systems are Community Health Workers (CHWs), who provide vital integrated care and address general health issues. Yet, despite their indispensable role, CHWs often lack recognition, support, and adequate resources.
Recognizing the pressing need to bolster community health systems on a broader level, the Monrovia Call to Action was launched in March 2023. It called upon leaders to invest in country-led community health strategies, professionalize CHWs, integrate them into health sector plans, and establish accountability frameworks to track progress. This call to action aims to build resilient community health systems capable of effectively responding to health crises and improving overall population well-being.
Responding to this call, UNICEF MENARO (Middle East and North Africa Regional Office) has commissioned a hera team of seasoned experts, to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the community health system policy and implementation landscape in the MENA region. This assessment is a vital part of the MENA regional Primary Health Care (PHC) Accelerator's work plan for 2022-2023.
The hera team, led by Project Director and hera partner Inge Jille Traas, comprises dedicated professionals with diverse expertise. Team Leader and hera partner Michèle Kosremelli Asmar, a Health Administration expert and Professor, will provide technical guidance. A group of skilled researchers, including hera partner Joumana Yeretzian, and Marianne Moussallem and Abdul Muti Al Azzeh, will lead the research efforts. Heiko Decosas, a specialist in public health communication and information technology, will oversee the development of the data dashboard. hera partner Justine Jensen, a global SRHR expert, will provide guidance and support on gender and rights aspects of the assessment. hera Partner Ronald Horstman, an experienced international global health advisor, will ensure quality control. hera project officer Eva Kayitesi will provide logistical and administrative support. Sixteen local consultants will also be selected to support in-country data collection and facilitation of the country consultation workshops. The team will also follow an inclusive, participatory, and collaborative approach closely involving key stakeholders, particularly UNICEF MENA and country offices, and respective MOHs in the different countries.
Together, this dynamic team is poised to conduct a comprehensive assessment and contribute to strengthening community health systems in the MENA region. Stay tuned for more updates as we work towards enhancing healthcare in the MENA region and making strides towards health as a fundamental human right.