MSF calls for the Government of Colombia give more attention to victims of sexual violence
Dr.Wagner Paulon
2008
A study done by the organization suggests obstacles that inhibit the search for medical care for patients and the lack of preparation of health professionals
09/10/2008 - The rate of sexual violence in Colombia is alarming. A study conducted by the international humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders (MSF) shows that 35% of patients in mobile clinics and 22% in fixed clinics experienced an episode of sexual violence at least once in their lifetime.
A victim of sexual violence needs to comprehensive health services, which include medical and psychological care. If offered at most 72 hours after what happened, medical care can help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV / AIDS and unwanted pregnancy. However, few victims seek medical care in time, and when they do, are faced with many obstacles, including insufficient or inadequate services.
The study "Sexual Violence in Colombia: a look full of humanitarian aid projects in health of Doctors Without Borders" shows that even if the Colombian legislation recognizes the need to provide to victims of sexual violence a minimum package of health services, such legislation that restricts access to it.
The first obstacle to delay access to health care for the victims are: shame, fear for personal safety, the possibility of being re-victimized and doubts about the confidentiality of services. If these obstacles are overcome and choose the victims seek medical help, they may be confronted by a lack of preparation of health professionals. The study by MSF shows that the human and physical resources are inadequate, lacking supplies and training necessary to implement comprehensive health care for victims of sexual violence.
"Our experience shows that many of the health professionals do not know the protocol, do not trust the diagnostic tools and have no medicines to treat patients who are victims of sexual violence," said Oscar Bernal, medical coordinator for MSF in Colombia. The administrative and logistical difficulties and the absence of statistical data were also identified as obstacles during the course of the study.
Based on experience in working with victims of sexual violence and the results of the study, MSF asked that health professionals be better prepared to offer comprehensive services and care to victims of sexual violence. MSF demands that the Colombian government clarify existing rules aimed at giving assistance to victims of sexual violence. "The regulations should indicate who is responsible for implementation and the options for those people seeking health services in the first 72 hours," said Piero Grandin, general coordinator of MSF.
Doctors Without Borders is in Colombia since 1985, providing basic healthcare, and assistance in mental health, sexual and reproductive. The teams from MSF are in 13 departments in Colombia, in urban and rural areas through mobile clinics to be fixed. The programs of sexual and reproductive health including family planning, prenatal examinations and psychological support and to the victims of sexual violence.
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