USAID is strengthening existing health service systems affected by conflict and supporting the delivery of primary healthcare services to hard-to-reach populations.

The health system in Yemen is crumbling as a result of the current conflict. A staggering 14.7 million people lack adequate healthcare and less than half of all health facilities are fully functional. There is a severe shortage in medicines, equipment, and staff across the country. Moreover, with the Ministry of Public Health and Population lacking the funding to cover critical operating costs, pressure is increasing on households and humanitarian organizations to fill the gap. Pregnant women, mothers, and young children are particularly vulnerable, as quality care throughout the stages of pregnancy, childbirth, and early childhood development is critical to prevent mortality and set a strong foundation for a child’s future.

USAID’S RESPONSE AND EXPECTED RESULTS

USAID Yemen is supporting basic health activities and strengthening health systems with UNICEF, WHO and the Ministry of Public Health and Population through the following activities:

• Combating Preventable Child Deaths: USAID is helping ensure that health facilities can combat the rising number of child deaths from preventable illnesses and promote improved child development. Approximately 360 health workers at 180 health facilities are receiving training on holistic child healthcare that takes into account all elements of the child’s wellbeing. USAID is also providing these health facilities with the supplies and equipment they need to provide these critical services.
• Maternal and Newborn Care in Communities: Unfortunately, it is increasingly difficult for many Yemenis to reach medical facilities. For this reason, USAID is also supporting expanded training for over 260 midwives that will help them better care for mothers and newborns in their communities and homes. These midwives will also receive smartphones with apps that allow them to receive remote medical guidance. This includes providing critical health care and managing complications before, after, and during labor. USAID is also helping provide essential care to infants to address low birth weight and other potential health issues.
• Childhood Disease Control: To ensure children are protected from preventable illnesses, USAID is supporting the Global Vaccine Action Plan for Yemen. In collaboration with the UN, the plan strives to provide all children with the recommended childhood vaccines, cold chain maintenance, and trained personnel needed to deliver high quality immunization services.

PROJECT PARTNERS

United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF)
World Health Organization (WHO)
Yemen Ministry of Public Health and Population
Governorate Health Offices
Selected International and Local NGOs