In the city of David, Panama, the attire of Health-care staff plays a crucial role in communicating important messages to patients. While white coats symbolize professionalism and surgical scrubs convey cleanliness and sterility in most hospitals worldwide, the unique blue-and-pink clothing worn by intercultural interpreter Eira Carerra at the José Domingo De Obaldía Maternal and Infant Hospital in Panama serves a different yet equally important purpose.
Ms. Carerra, a member of Panama’s indigenous Ngäbe community, stands out in her traditional attire as she bridges the communication gap between Ngäbe patients and the predominantly Spanish-speaking health care providers at the hospital. This role is essential in addressing the disparities in access to health care that the Ngäbe population faces, as a result of historical displacement, oppression, and rights violations stemming from colonialism.
Despite progress in reducing maternal mortality rates in Panama overall, there are still significant disparities affecting ethnic minorities, with indigenous women being at a higher risk of maternal death. Ngäbe women, in particular, have struggled to access quality maternal health services due to various barriers, including mistreatment by health care providers and lack of culturally-sensitive care.
In response to these challenges, Ngäbe Women’s Association worked with the hospital to establish an intercultural program aimed at improving communication and promoting culturally-sensitive care for indigenous patients. The program, spearheaded by Ms. Carerra, has significantly improved the hospital staff’s approach to Ngäbe women, with emphasis on patient consent for procedures.
The hospital’s commitment to inclusion and integration is evident in various aspects, from incorporating traditional Ngäbe designs into staff uniforms to providing information in both Spanish and Ngäbere. Small gestures of empathy and support, such as welcoming pregnant Ngäbe women who have traveled long distances to seek care, reflect a larger effort to address social inequalities and save maternal lives.
As Panama continues its journey towards improving maternal health outcomes for all its citizens, initiatives like the one at the José Domingo De Obaldía hospital serve as a beacon of hope for marginalized communities, showcasing the power of inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in healthcare delivery.
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