A new approach to assess the capability of health facilities to provide clinical care for sexual violence against women: a pilot study

• DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czy106
• Publication Date: 2018-12-28T15:10:45Z
• Authors: Mardieh L Dennis; Onikepe O Owolabi; Jenny A Cresswell; Nachela Chelwa; Manuela Colombini; Bellington Vwalika; Michael T Mbizvo; Oona M R Campbell
• Keywords: Sexual Violence; Preparedness

Several tools have been developed to collect information on health facility preparedness provide sexual violence response services; however, little guidance exists how this can be used better understand which functions a perform. Our study therefore aims propose set of signal that framework for monitoring the availability clinical services. To illustrate potential insights gained from using our proposed functions, we analyse data census conducted in Central Province, Zambia. We collected geographic coordinates facilities and police stations assess women's proximity multi-sectoral defined three key domains services, based timing visit relation most recent assault: (1) core (2) immediate care, (3) delayed follow-up care. Combining all domains, estimate just 3% were able comprehensive violence, only 16% could time-sensitive care services such as HIV post-exposure prophylaxis emergency contraception. Services concentrated hospitals, with few centres no posts fulfilling any domains. Only 23% women lived within 15 km 38% These findings point need develop clear strategies decentralizing maximize coverage ensure equity access. Overall, suggest simple valuable approach assessing identifying areas improvement tracking improvements over time.