Extra Support for Maternity Health Care in Suriname
Strengthening Prenatal Care in Suriname: A Collaborative Initiative by APA and MMPHCS
In a significant step toward enhancing maternal health care in Suriname, APA has made a substantial donation of vital medical equipment to nine clinics operated by Medical Mission Primary Health Care Suriname (MMPHCS). This initiative addresses the pressing need for accessible prenatal services in underserved villages, where travel to the capital city can prove daunting for expectant mothers.
The donation includes state-of-the-art ultrasound devices, gel, iPads, and specialized training in ultrasonography, aimed at empowering medical professionals in these clinics to provide comprehensive prenatal care. By making essential diagnostic tools available in remote areas, the initiative ensures that regular monitoring can take place, allowing for early diagnosis and timely medical intervention should complications arise.
Among the clinics benefiting from this partnership is the Powaka clinic, located in the village of Brownsweg. Historically, the clinic has faced challenges in meeting the increasing demands for prenatal care due to its limited ultrasound capacity. The addition of the new equipment promises to alleviate this burden, enabling healthcare providers to better serve their community.
A recent visit by APA’s team allowed members to witness firsthand the impact of the donation. During their tour, they met with a mother and her newborn who had directly benefited from the services offered by the clinic. “Seeing the clinic staff use the ultrasound and bring reassurance and joy to families during pregnancy really brought APA’s mission to life,” remarked Deena M., APA’s External Affairs Director. “This donation is imperative to ensuring women receive consistent care locally, without the need to travel for miles.”
This latest contribution builds on APA Suriname’s commitment to community welfare. In 2018, the organization donated eight solar-powered refrigerators to several clinics, addressing the critical issue of unreliable electricity that had led to the disposal of essential vaccines. The partnership with MMPHCS exemplifies APA’s long-term commitment to investing in local healthcare infrastructure and the well-being of the community.
Looking ahead, APA Suriname aims to extend its impact beyond maternity care. Future training programs will equip healthcare workers to utilize the ultrasound devices for kidney and prostate screenings, further enhancing the region’s healthcare capabilities.
This collaboration serves as a powerful example of how targeted support can lead to transformative changes in community health. By prioritizing maternal care and expanding services to address broader health concerns, both APA and MMPHCS are committed to fostering a healthier, more sustainable future for all Surinamese communities.
