Written by Photo: Paul Bettings.
In Myanmar’s remote, rural community, it used to be that health emergencies couldn’t always be met because help was too far away. Reaching the nearest health centre required travel first by motorbike and then by boat. But with help from the ENRICH program, Ma Hla Hla, a public health supervisor, is tearing down that barrier.
To accomplish this, Ma Hla Hla signed up for health training that lasted several months. It included in-class and practical learning opportunities that earned her qualification as a health worker.
Today, she spends her time monitoring the development of babies and toddlers She provides information to parents about proper nutrition, how to deal with seasonal illness, good hygiene and the importance of regular health visits.
But ENRICH provides more than just one-time training. Ma Hla Hla receives continuous medical education—staying up to date on trends and best practices in sanitation, vaccination, communicable diseases and more. This helps health workers remain on top of changes and developments so they can provide their communities with the best possible care.
In addition to resourcing for personnel, ENRICH has also helped refurbish the local health centre, including construction of a birthing centre. Classes are held here include nutrition and hygiene for mothers, as well as training for husbands and fathers.
Ma Hla Hla visiting a mother and her newborn in remote Myanmar to monitor the baby’s health. Photo: Paul Bettings
With frequent contact between Ma Hla Hla and the villagers, more families are recognizing the need for health consultation. Husbands who previously discouraged their wives from attending education sessions are increasingly supportive—and are even attending themselves.