The earthquake that rocked Nepal a year ago carried a high toll not just in human life and economic losses, but also for the more than 22,300 people left temporarily or permanently disabled.
The partial or complete destruction of over 1,000 healthcare facilities was another blow to those with pre-existing conditions, as well as those injured or disabled in the series of temblors.
In response, IOM, supported by AmeriCares, Australian Aid and the Nepal Physiotherapy Association has produced a pioneering series of Public Service Announcements (PSAs) on injury rehabilitation and accessibility, targeting earthquake survivors.
22,300 people left temporarily or permanently disabled
Over 1,000 healthcare facilities partially or completely destroyed
These PSAs aim to generate public awareness, particularly among earthquake survivors with disabilities and their families on how they can resume their daily lives after traumatic events.
A step-by-step guide on how to make easy to build modifications to create accessible homes and infrastructure, and adaptations to their daily living activities is underpinned by PSAs with key hygiene tips and messages on the importance of exercise to rehabilitation.
"I encourage everyone to contribute to improving the quality of life of those are injured in the earthquake".
IOM Chief of Mission, Maurizio Busatti.
"The simplest thing that we can do is building or modifying houses to make them more accessible by building ramps, lowering the door handles and creating enough open space for wheelchairs to move around," said IOM Chief of Mission, Mr. Maurizio Busatti.
Long after acute needs were met, IOM continued to provide patient transport to ensure follow-up and rehabilitation care was provided: a key element to prevent life-long disability for the injured. During the first twelve months of the earthquake response, IOM medical escort teams assisted over 1,800 patients with discharge, referral to local health facilities or safe return into the community.In close cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Population and the District Health Office, IOM established and operates the 40-bed Injury Rehabilitation Unit in Chautara, Sindhupalchowk district. This facility provides 'step down' or transitionary care, including intensive physiotherapy, nursing care, psychosocial support and safe shelter for patients with earthquake-related injuries and disabilities.
Over 1,800 patients assisted by IOM medical escort teams
The PSAs are available to download here.
For further information, please contact Maurizio Busatti, email: mbusatti@iom.int , tel. +9779801004510 or Ariani Hasanah Soejoeti, email: ahasoejoeti@iom.int, tel. +9779810175020.
