The partnership between Malteser Hilfsdienst gGmbH and Project Aid The Gambia, an NGO in the country, seeks to improve emergency medical care in rural regions of Gambia by using trained first-aiders from the population, an ambulance, an emergency number and professionals trained in emergency medical care at the Jahaly Health Centre.
Context:
People in rural areas of Gambia often have to travel long distances to see a doctor. Knowledge of first-aid techniques is limited and there is little awareness of how the health of those with diseases can deteriorate. A lack of advisory centres and an emergency system means that patients in critical condition often fail to reach hospital facilities in time.
Activities:
- The project managers undertake a preliminary trip within Gambia to identify regional structures, set up an emergency number and present the project to the population
- Holding courses for first-aiders from the population and establishment of a first-aiders’ network
- Providing emergency training for nurses and other professionals at the Jahaly Health Centre
- Training up specialists to drive ambulances
- Supporting first-aid trainers with providing training for existing first-aiders from the local population and ambulance drivers
Results:
Developing an emergency system in Gambia helps to ensure faster treatment for patients in medical emergencies and thus reduces mortality rates. Setting up an emergency number simplifies the process of advising patients, as they no longer have to make long journeys.