outreach challenges

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 Here are some of the challenges faced during the outreach: 

❖ Larger populations of refugees who were in remote areas could not be reached 

❖ Refugees/Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) were expecting monetary and/or food gifts 

❖ Shortage of medical providers and specialists 

❖ There were language and communication challenges 

Lessons learnt during the free medical outreach of KHMI in Taraba and Cross River states in Nigeria

❖ Periodic medical screenings and interventions have to be provided for refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and complications of chronic medical conditions 

❖ Vulnerable children have to be screened for developmental problems and nutritional deficiencies and interventions provided to improve growth and development 

❖ Vulnerable children need a review and update of immunizations 

❖ Children of refugees and internally displaced persons need educational support as many children do not get the opportunity to be enrolled in school after displacement 

❖ Vulnerable people have to be screened and treated for trauma and mental health conditions related to displacement 

❖ All vulnerable people need health education on disease prevention, health promotion and public safety measures due to unhealthy and unsafe living conditions in camps 

❖ Vulnerable people need to be sensitized on the need for personal and environmental care to prevent ill health and the spread of disease 

❖ Vulnerable people have to be provided with empowerment projects to supplement income, improve their quality of life and health 

General conclusion 

In conclusion, over 3643 people received the free medical outreach organized by KHMI in Taraba and Cross River States of Nigeria. Medical conditions screened and treated included, allergies, hypertension, diabetes, gastritis/ gastric ulcers, malaria, typhoid, chlamydia, gonorrhea, urinary tract infections, vulvovaginitis, cellulitis, skin rashes and ulcers. Patients received consultations, laboratory testing and medications free of charge. Eight people with inguinal hernia, ovarian cysts, and dermoid cysts had minor surgeries done. Vision, dental problems, spinal deformities, neuro-developmental problems, infertility, HIV, Hepatitis B and C, tuberculosis, hydrocephalus, elephantiasis, skin ulcer with suspected sepsis were referred to nearby hospitals and specialists for alternate care