APA-Cotonou (Benin) The Beninese authorities have just launched a “national community health policy” aimed at bringing health workers closer to the population.
The first phase of this policy was launched in Nikki in northern Benin.
In all, 1,500 community relays and 37 qualified community health agents are responsible for ensuring the health well-being of the populations of the communes of Nikki, Kalale, Banikoara, Bembereke, Sinende and Malanville, in the north of the country.
“A community relay will be responsible for an average of 200 households. Their mission will be to visit all households in their coverage area at least once a week, to detect health problems, advise and guide, distribute health inputs and products, and help with case referrals,” said Professor Benjamin Hounkpatin, Minister of Health, at the launch ceremony.
The minister explained that the qualified community health agent is under the supervision of the mayor, and is responsible for overseeing the activities of all the community relays in his or her district.
They are responsible for treating certain common illnesses, and for referring cases beyond their remit to the appropriate health facilities.
Minister Hounkpatin invited all those involved to make this first phase an example for the rest of the project.
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