Women in Healthcare Spotlight

Meet Nirmala Rai.

Nirmala is the Sapta Chhitapokhari Health Post In-Charge.

She is also one of the few women to hold such a position, where most men head the health posts.

Nirmala has been working at the Sapta Chhitapokhari Health Post for the last four years.

When she first started her job, the health post building had no birthing center.

There was no medical equipment or a proper bed or a separate room for delivery.

Unsurprisingly, the FCHVs were unable to convince the families to visit the health post for institutional delivery.

Things started to change after the renovation of the birthing center in 2018.

“In two years, we have been successful in increasing institutional deliveries, and the cases of home deliveries are almost nil,” says Nirmala.

Their records show that they have almost reached the target of 52 live births per year through institutional birth delivery.

She further explains how OHW’s support has helped them to set up a system that can make maternity care sustainable without being highly dependent on international donor funding.

“There is high morale among our staff today since the birthing center was renovated. We have so many success stories to share due to better service. We will always be indebted to One Heart Worldwide’s support.”

By Naresh Newar in Khotang, Nepal