Community engagement and participation are crucial in the delivery of health services. In the Twifo-Hemang-Lower-Denkyira-District (THLDD), Maame Sofo Sarah Pamful and her faith-based organization, New Jerusalem Prayer Garden, have played a significant role in healthcare delivery and the early detection of health conditions or diseases.
As the Overseer of the New Jerusalem Prayer Garden, Maame Sofo has been a strong advocate of Primary Health Care services since 2004. Her activities have contributed to the referral of pregnant women to health centers for Antenatal Care (ANC) and delivery services. She has also worked to change the health-seeking behavior of expectant mothers to patronize ANC services at the health center instead of Traditional Birth Attendants (TBA) through education and prompt referrals.
Maame Sofo’s efforts have also led to an increase in Child Welfare Clinic (CWC) attendance by caretakers/mothers, as she provided a shed within the prayer camp for Community Health Nurses to render CWC services. This has promoted visits by Caregivers to CWC, improving immunization services for under five children. Additionally, the New Jerusalem Prayer Garden has notified health centers of some diseases and health events for prompt action.
The District Health Administration has recognized Maame Sofo as very cooperative and exemplary. Her activities have contributed to an increase in Tuberculosis case detection and reduction in defaulter rate/cases. As a result, the camp itself serves as a DOT Center for treatment and management of TB cases.
The activities of the New Jerusalem Prayer Garden align with WHO’s efforts to promote health for all, and their collaboration with stakeholders to promote the health and wellbeing of the people is essential.
It is clear that prayer camps, such as the New Jerusalem Prayer Garden, play an important role in community health service delivery. Their unique position allows them to engage and mobilize the community for improved health outcomes. With continued engagement and participation, faith-based leaders can ensure that prayer camps and other religious establishments play a significant role in the promotion, protection, and provision of appropriate health care to all.
