February 8, 2006

USAID Lays Groundwork for Future Health Care

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has funded the establishment of Basic Health Units (BHU) in rural areas of Pakistan to meet the health care needs of populations affected by the deadly earthquake that struck the country last year.

The October 8, 2005 earthquake left over 80% of health facilities destroyed or damaged beyond use. A majority of health care providers were themselves affected by loss of family members and loss of homes. The loss of life and facilities effectively destroyed the health delivery systems in earthquake-affected areas.

The USAID-funded BHUs will serve approximately 30,000 to 40,000 persons. The unit in Jambori village, for example, includes a registration area, several rooms for patient evaluations, a laboratory, and a pharmacy. Doctors from the Ministry of Health support the unit, while community healthcare extension teams are currently in training to provide first-line care and health education. Referrals to the unit are from nearby villages. USAID also funded an ambulance to help health extension teams transport those needing critical care.

USAID is beginning construction this year of health care facilities that include a secondary hospital, four rural health centers and 20 basic health units. USAID supports programs that revitalize basic clinical services as well as training into remote areas.

USAID is balancing quick response to the crisis with sustainable long-term development, helping stretch and strengthen healthcare services in Pakistan's earthquake-affected region.

The United States, through USAID, is providing more than $1.5 billion in development assistance to Pakistan over the next five years to improve education, health, governance and economic growth. In addition, the United States has pledged a total of $510 million in earthquake relief and reconstruction efforts to assist the people of Pakistan and to support Pakistani government efforts.