MEXICO: Access to care for indigenous communities
Largely rural and poor with a large indigenous population, Mexico’s southern state of Chiapas lags far behind the rest of the country in terms of access to health services. With a long history of discrimination and marginalization, the indigenous Maya people suffer from high rates of malnutrition, tuberculosis, and maternal mortality, as well as low literacy rates. Language and cultural barriers also prevent people from accessing much-needed health services, as most health providers do not speak indigenous languages spoken by their clients.
Rebuilding systems, improving access to care
Doctors of the World – USA (DOW) began working in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas in 1994, when the Zapatista uprising led to the flight of much of the medical staff working in indigenous communities. In Altamirano, over 900 indigenous communities were left with little access to medical care and other services. Over the years, DOW physician volunteers placed at a local private hospital have delivered essential medical services, conducted teaching conferences for local medical staff, implemented an obstetrical nursing program, trained rural midwives in prenatal care and safe delivery, and trained indigenous community members to serve as nurse auxiliaries at the hospital. A current project focuses on increasing awareness of tuberculosis and promoting community involvement in health delivery systems.
Comprehensive and long-term solutions
DOW’s efforts have worked to increase access to care for the local indigenous population, while building local capacity and self sufficiency. All of DOW’s programs have included the active participation of communities, improving their self-sufficiency, long-term prospects, and equitable access to health care.
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CURRENT PROJECTS IN MEXICO:
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CURRENT PROJECTS IN MEXICO: