Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for reproductive health during emergencies: time for a new paradigm?

Reproductive health (RH) has historically received low priority in the hierarchy of humanitarian response. Awareness of RH needs in emergencies began in the mid-1990s and led to the formation of the Inter-Agency Working Group (IAWG) for RH. Subsequently, the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP), a set of guidelines for RH service delivery in crisis settings, was created. The objectives of the MISP are to facilitate the coordination of RH services, prevent and manage the consequences of sexual violence, reduce HIV transmission, minimize maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, and plan for comprehensive RH services in the post-crisis phase. Available documentation on MISP implementation is minimal, and reveals mixed success. Challenges include low MISP awareness, inadequate RH training among humanitarian actors, logistical difficulties and poor coordination. Continued emphasis on advocacy and capacity building, a stronger focus on logistics and coordination and a greater commitment to monitoring and evaluation are essential for improving the MISP's effectiveness in the field.

Picking up the Pieces: WomenÆs Health Needs Assessment: Fond Parisien Region, Haiti: January - February 2010

Cette évaluation des besoins de santé des femmes a été menée pour identifier les besoins spécifiques et immédiats des femmes, et pour fournir des recommandations pour la programmation de la santé des femmes à court et à long terme dans la zone de Fond Parisien. Ces recommandations sont basées sur les résultats des enquêtes menées auprès de 64 femmes vivant dans le camp de personnes déplacées de Fond Parisien.