Location: Bulgaria - Sliven, Nadezhda district

Situation:

The healthcare reforms started in Bulgaria in 2000 introduced a system of paid health insurance. But most Roma are excluded from the health system because of a lack of information about the system or because they find it impossible to pay the premiums. The figures are alarming, especially in relation to vaccination, infant mortality, hygiene practices and reproductive health.

Activities:

The programme restarted in June 2009 with activities established in September. An investigation of the living conditions and access to healthcare of 200 young women from the Nadezhda quarter allowed MdM to evaluate the needs of the community. Four local mediators have been trained by professionals on maternal and infant health,  reproductive health and access to healthcare. Methods of raising awareness have been developed by the team and are introduced to the community by way of group discussions and educational workshops. Finally a system to refer people to mainstream health services is being developed.

Outlook:

After several evaluations, the project is being revised. In 2010, the principal focus of the programme will be centred on maternal and infant health education, family planning and hygiene. Moreover, the role of the local mediators will be intensified.