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Women and Children's Health

Where We Work /

Bulgaria

Better access to healthcare for Roma

In 2000, the healthcare reforms in Bulgaria introduced a system of paid health insurance. But most Roma are excluded from this system either because of lack of information on their rights, or because of inability to pay the premiums. The figures are particularly alarming, particularly in relation to vaccination, infant mortality, hygiene practices, and reproductive health.

Nadezhda district, Sliven

ACTIVITIES

In 2010, the Doctors of the World team oversaw the existing training of health mediators, as far as it is recognized in Bulgaria. Training modules on antenatal healthcare and on hygiene were created and disseminated. Finally, a vaccination campaign was supported, notably with door-to-door distribution of information to families.

RESULTS

125 people were trained in prenatal and postnatal healthcare, and hygiene. 850 homes were visited and 1,600 people informed about the benefits of vaccination.

OUTLOOK

In 2011, health education will focus on nutrition and family planning. A hygiene center will be set up in the heart of the Nadezhda quarter and will be directly accessible to the local communities. A social worker will be recruited to aid the reintegration of the Sliven Roma into the Bulgarian social security system. In addition, a conference among health professionals is planned for the end of the year.

Doctors of the World