|
|
Main concerns/issues
to be addressed
|
Possible
solution/Strategic approaches
|
|
1.
|
Perceived shift in
the leprosy control strategy
|
In the past we have
avoided and many times actively discouraged control programmes
to spend too much time on this issue. Programme managers
should be convinced that this is not a shift but it is an
important additional activity for leprosy control. They
will need appropriate technical and resource support to
implement such a strategy.
|
|
2.
|
Introduction of
outdated PoD and rehabilitation policies
|
There is a need to
bring fresh ideas to this concept, probably from outside
leprosy expertise. Here we can be innovative and bold.
|
|
3.
|
Danger of slowing
down integration efforts
|
Integration for
sustainable control is the number one priority. If this
can be achieved, the long-term rewards are enormous for public
health. As rehabilitation issues involve mostly
individuals who are no more regarded as leprosy patients, this
initiative need to be seen as a human/social issue.
|
|
4.
|
Too little will be
done by project approach, at high cost (time and money)
|
If uncontrolled or
unguided, we will have useless small projects with high
visibility but little impact on the magnitude of the problem.
We must go for a national Plans of Action with clear outcomes
in specific timeframes.
|
|
5.
|
To be seen in a
social context.
|
Rehabilitation is an
emotionally attractive and sensitive issue due to religious,
cultural and political conflicts of interests. Can we
remain focused on technical issue only?
|
|
6.
|
Emergence of new
experts
|
Hope we can avoid
this and find people who can genuinely contribute to
development of best possible approaches.
|
|
7.
|
Re-inventing
specialised projects for leprosy
|
Rehabilitation is a
general issue for the community. It need not be disease
specific. It is to address the issues of poverty,
inequality and socio-economic persecution. Can we handle
this huge agenda?
|
|
8.
|
Lack of effective
tools
|
Over the years, no
new tools or effective strategies have surfaced. Most
current efforts are ineffective and benefit the donor than the
receiver. Can we change this?
|
|
9.
|
Lack of interest and
involvement of the community
|
Communities will not
see leprosy-specific efforts as good for them. It may create
jealousy, inequality and rejection from the community.
What messages to be given to get community involved?
|
|
11.
|
Lack of involvement
of other sectors
|
Involving all sectors
even at the local level, so that all who need services will
benefit from it. It is the only way a credible strategy
can be implemented and sustained.
|
|
12.
|
What else?
|
?
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