In Her Words: Healthcare Provider – Ethiopia

Name: Mahider Teshome
Role of Storyteller: Provider / Gejaba Health Center midwife
Location: Wonsho District

I had no background information about Grounds for Health—I had never even heard of it before I was nominated to take part in the clinical training at Yirgalem Hospital. Since the first day of the training, my communication with Grounds for health has become stronger and stronger, and I started to understand why and how they are trying to do things in the community.

After the two day clinical training, I joined the first-ever cervical cancer screening and treatment campaign in Wonsho district. I was amazed everyday with how many women we were able to see. I first had a fear that women may not come for such a screening but I have changed my mind. I feel that women are more comfortable to be seen by me when they arrive to the health center because of my gender. This provides the opportunity to see more women and use my new skills.

I now have the knowledge and skills to perform VIA and cryo. Before I had no such awareness. The knowledge and skill transfer to the local providers like me is the most important aspect of the program and is the corner stone of the ongoing service. I have the confidence to perform VIA and cryo accurately. To the wider community this program means a lot.

This is the first time in Ethiopia that such a program has arrived at the community level—before they were located in big hospitals only. The community has limited access because of distance and financial constraints. But now the service is open to nearby health center for free. The community has now started to use this opportunity, which will save the lives of more women.

To me, the most important change is the awareness of the community is increasing towards cervical cancer. The Ferro Cooperative Committee, the HEWs, woman development army, the kebele, as well as the political leaders have now the understanding of how cervical cancer can be prevented. As the local providers, we now have new skills and knowledge to prevent cervical cancer.

I have learned the power of educating and teaching the community. Grounds for Health was useful in mobilizing the community to get screening and treatment using systematic community outreach education. Now the community is moving for betterment of their health.

Editor’s Note: The original translated transcript has been modified for grammar, spelling and clarity. Please contact us for the original unedited version.