The Gaziantep Model: Integrated Mother-Child Health Services for Healthy Communities After Disasters

Authors : Elif Okşan Çalıkoğlu, Mehmet Karadağ, Beril Bayrak Bulucu, Filiz Otucu Ruhm, Ayşe Balat

Pages : 187-191

Doi:10.34087/cbusbed.1400223

View : 137 | Download : 122

Publication Date : 2024-06-28

Article Type : Other Papers

Abstract :This article discusses the Gaziantep Model, which focuses on integrated mother-child health services in the aftermath of disasters, with a particular focus on the 2023 earthquakes in Turkey. The model emphasizes the importance of maternal and child health in building healthy communities post-disaster and offers a comprehensive approach to address physical and mental health. The Gaziantep model uses a hybrid structure of mobile and fixed healthcare services to provide care at both individual and societal levels. It also recognizes the importance of healthcare staff\'s well-being. The article highlights the significant impact of the earthquakes, including damage to healthcare facilities and the strain on healthcare personnel, especially in regions with a high population of Syrian refugees. Gaziantep, with its existing maternal and infant mortality challenges, serves as a suitable province for implementing this model. The article emphasizes the long-term consequences of disasters on maternal and child health, including increased risks during pregnancy, mental health issues, and developmental challenges for children. The Gaziantep model aims to foster collaboration among various agencies and organizations, develop targeted interventions, and collect data to improve maternal and child health, reduce burnout among medical personnel, and enhance the overall well-being of communities. It involves the partnership of Gaziantep University, the ZERU Association, Gaziantep Provincial Health Directorate, and Gaziantep Municipality. Overall, the Gaziantep Model offers a comprehensive approach to address the unique healthcare needs of mothers, children, and families in the aftermath of disasters, with a focus on collaboration and long-term community health.
Keywords : Afet, ruh sağlığı, erken çocukluk, Türkiye, deprem