MISP Implementation in Jordan

Location:

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to describe the extent of the MISPMinimum Initial Service Package for reproductive health services for Syrian refugees living in Zaatri refugee camp and one urban setting (Irbid City) in Jordan in March 2013. With local partners, the evaluation utilized mixed methods including focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and health facility assessments.

Findings:

Key elements to support MISPMinimum Initial Service Package implementation were in place, including a dedicated lead agency and SRHSexual and reproductive health focal point to coordinate MISPMinimum Initial Service Package implementation, funding, and SRHSexual and reproductive health supplies. Key informants reported that SRHSexual and reproductive health coordination was insufficient for the urban areas and did not include participation from all key stakeholders, and clinical protocols for survivors of sexual violence and sexually transmitted infections were incomplete and missing, respectively. Clinical care for survivors of sexual violence was limited. Refugee women and adolescent girls were dissatisfied with available clinical services and their lack of participation in the humanitarian response.

Lessons Learned:

Leadership and coordination by the Ministry of Health with key UNUnited Nations agencies and NGONon-government Organizations to secure funding and SRHSexual and reproductive health supplies are effective drivers to the availability of the MISPMinimum Initial Service Package.  High density refugee camps often garner more attention than urban settings where refugees are more disbursed within the host community. Concerted efforts are required to focus attention to less visible urban refugee settings. Gaps in pre-existing national SRHSexual and reproductive health protocols need to be identified and addressed immediately. It is critical to engage and support the capacities of crisis-affected women and girls in the humanitarian response.