Improving Primary Health Care Provision in Libya

Project descripiton

Title: Improving Primary Health Care Provision, Libya
Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
Country: Libya
Partner: International Medical Corps (IMC), Primary Care International (PCI)
Lead executing agency: Ministry of Health, Libya
Overall term: 2018 to 2025

Context

Due to the ongoing political and economic crisis and precarious security situation, the health system in Libya is fragmented and weakened. State-run primary health care centres are unable to ensure adequate health care provision. In addition, health services are difficult to access, especially for disadvantaged population groups. This includes girls and women, people with disabilities or in need of psychosocial support, victims of gender-based and other forms of violence, older people, internally displaced persons and migrants.

Objective

The quality of primary health care services as well as the access for disadvantaged population groups has improved in selected municipalities and contributes to social cohesion.

Approach

In cooperation with the Ministry of Health, the project is working in 11 communities in Libya on the following measures:

• Health committees are being established in which local decision-makers and representatives of disadvantaged population groups have a voice in the planning of primary health care provision. Correspondingly, the management skills of local health authorities are being strengthened.
• In 25 primary health care centres, staff are receiving training on topics such as maternal and child health, mental health and non-communicable diseases. The focus is on the individual’s health needs and expectations. In addition, basic medical equipment is being provided.
• Psychosocial support services are being expanded through the development of a network of trained mental health representativeswho liase between communities and health centres.
• Community-based epidemic surveillance and response is being promoted in selected communities. Through a COVID-19 emergency support measure for hospitals, essential equipment is being provided and laboratory and medical staff are being trained in COVID-19 testing and treatment.

Last update: April 2022