Kanungu Health Center IV has long struggled with space limitations, hampering the quality, utilization, and accessibility of services for its 1346 clients. However, a much-awaited solution has arrived through the generous support of Chaperone International. With ongoing expansion efforts, the health center is undergoing a transformation that promises to address these critical space challenges and improve the overall healthcare experience for the community.
The Challenges:
The lack of adequate space at Kanungu Health Center IV has had significant repercussions on service delivery. Approximately 40% of clients have been unable to access quality counselling services, while an alarming 60% have not received the quality clinical services they require. Additionally, around 30% of clients have faced stigma due to the lack of privacy when collecting their ARVs from the dispensing window.
Identifying the Need for Change:
During CLM routine clinic monitoring exercises and conversations with clients, the impact of infrastructure limitations on service delivery became evident. The multipurpose room at Kanungu Health Center IV, where counsellors, clinicians, and other staff members had to share limited space, created a challenging environment for delivering quality care. The lack of privacy compromised the counselling process, hindering effective communication between healthcare providers and clients.
The CLM Intervention:
The CLM intervention initiated a transformative journey for Kanungu Health Center IV. Recognizing the urgent need for expansion, Chaperone International stepped in to support the health centre’s infrastructure development.
As a result of the CLM intervention, dedicated spaces have been created to address the pressing needs of the health center. New counselling rooms have been established to provide a safe and confidential environment where clients can openly discuss their concerns, fears, and challenges with trained counsellors. This ensures that quality counselling services are accessible to all clients without any fear of judgment or a lack of privacy.
Moreover, the expansion efforts have led to the creation of separate clinical rooms. This separation of spaces allows healthcare providers to conduct thorough check-ups and consultations in a focused and attentive manner, significantly improving the quality of clinical services delivered.
To combat stigma and promote privacy, a separate dispensing window has been established away from the waiting area for lab services. This discreet area ensures that clients can collect their ARVs without feeling exposed, fostering a supportive environment where individuals can access their medication with dignity.
Conclusion:
Thanks to the support from Chaperone International and the CLM intervention, Kanungu Health Center IV is undergoing a remarkable transformation. The expansion efforts and creation of dedicated counselling rooms, clinical spaces, and a discreet dispensing window are set to revolutionize service delivery.
The improved infrastructure will enable the health center to better cater to the needs of its clients, offering quality counselling and clinical services while addressing the issue of stigma. By creating an inclusive and empowering environment, Kanungu Health Center IV is poised to provide enhanced healthcare experiences and ultimately improve the well-being of the community it serves.
