Attachments
I. Background and Introduction
In the current context of the Gaza emergency, challenges related to shortage of supplies and equipment, qualified and specialized human resources, high cost and low availability of transport, fragmentation and multiplication of service providers have negatively impacted on the health system, including on referral pathways. At the same time, the number of service delivery points able to offer adequate service packages has dramatically decreased, hence increasing the need for effective referrals. Such challenges are likely to remain in the upcoming transition phase, at the early hour of the ceasefire, and during early recovery phases.
Effective referral pathways for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services are crucial to reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, and to improve timely and dignified access to care.
Ensuring seamless coordination and communication among healthcare providers and with other sectors is essential to deliver timely, quality and holistic care without generating - or by minimizing as much as possible - out of pocket costs and additional burdens to people in need of services.
Since 2005, acknowledging the importance of specific referral mechanisms for SRHR, UNFPA and other international and national agencies, supported the Ministry of Health (Women’s Health and Development Directorates) in drafting a Unified Reproductive Health Referral System - Policies, Protocols and Procedures Manual.
Since then, with support and contribution by several agencies, criteria have been revised and updated.
This guidance-note outlines principles and suggests practical modalities to ensure smooth referral pathways for individuals seeking SRHR services and connected needs, it is adapted to the current context and based on the lessons learned by partners in the recent crisis. It is intended to be used as a short and immediate working tool, while referring to clinical policies and protocols for specific guidance. Moreover, while strongly encouraging service providers to align to the principles and standards listed below, each organization will have to adapt their referral pathways according to location, level of services, etc. The SRHR coordination team is available to provide more information and ad hoc support.