Possible UNICEF Inputs

Depending on the assessment of actual needs and the complementary capacities of UNICEF and its partners, some of the following UNICEF inputs might be considered:

· funding for additional (preferably national) personnel to be mobilized for central and field level coordination and supervision of emergency health operations;

· funding for the mobilization and operation of specialized national medical teams and for the participation (i.e. funding travel costs) of appropriate personnel from national institutions;

· sets of basic equipment for clinics, dispensaries, MCH centres and hospitals, which may be acquired by the diversion of stocks on hand or en route for regular programmes, local purchases or air deliveries from Supply Division;

· kerosene for basic health units and sterilization equipment;

· plastic sheeting, tarpaulins, large tents, locally available repair materials;

· spare parts/funds for the repair of damaged vehicles and replacement vehicles, where necessary;

· other reconstruction materials, including electric and water fittings;

· consultant missions, when necessary, to assist in the assessment and planning of rehabilitation services in areas of particular concern to UNICEF (e.g. pediatric care, MCH services, EPI programmes);

· funding for the training of new paramedical and village health workers, including the preparation and production of training materials and guidelines and refresher training for existing health workers;

· materials, equipment and supplies to re-establish long-term training programmes for community health workers, nurses, midwives and paramedical workers.

Only in very exceptional circumstances does UNICEF provide or sponsor new medical teams or individual medical field workers, which are usually provided by other organizations. WHO may advise and assist the relevant authorities in overall management and coordination.

During the initial phase of an emergency, deliveries should be restricted to essential medical items only - namely, items without which the necessary minimum level of service cannot be provided. Additional equipment may be provided at a later date.

UNICEF inputs should normally be focused on the needs of the lower-level health care delivery facilities (dispensaries and health centres). Equipment for hospitals should be reserved for pediatric and maternity wards, as well as outpatient and laboratory services.