Nicolas Demers Labrousse, Coordinator of the international NGO Médecins du Monde (present in Haiti since 1996), deplores that 5 of the 9 hospitals with which the organization works suffered serious damage during the earthquake of August 14, 2021 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34479-haiti-flash-magnitude-72-earthquake-in-the-nippes-updated-10am.html considering that "The combination of earthquakes, hurricanes and pandemic, as well as one the most precarious health systems and high levels of violence, make Haiti a country in a situation of permanent health emergency."

"Although the needs are great, humanitarian aid is often hampered by roadblocks set up by armed groups. Today it is more difficult to reach the municipalities in which we work, such as Grand-Goâve and Petit-Goâve, south of the capital. A journey that usually takes just over two hours and can only be done by helicopter to a safe point to avoid the most dangerous areas of the city.

For the transport of medical equipment, we coordinate with organizations that have a maritime freight transport network," said María José Venceslá, coordinator of Médecins du Monde Spain in Haiti.

United Nations data for 2021 indicates that 23% of the population does not have access to essential health services. 40% of people are minors and 65% are women and girls. This represents a 26% increase over 2020.

The maternal mortality rate is the highest in the Americas, with 529 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants.

To find out more about Médecins du Monde in Haiti visit : https://doctorsoftheworld.ca/international-actions/ha%C3%AFti

TB/ HaitiLibre