Jayne Whyte's Portfolio

It was a long ride but also a very interesting one working as an intern in the monitoring and evaluation Department of John Snow Inc. I never felt that I would miss everyone that much as I am presently.While an Intern, I worked with data, data for me represents lives-human lives and  I would like to share my thoughts  with everyone on the need for passion and commitment as we look forward to achieving the MDGs.

It is important to note  that Health Commodities are just as important as vaccines are to child survival, health services and supply remains out of reach for too many people. In all ways, not only because I am a woman, but it is a fact that that women bear the brunt of an insecure supply of health commodities- HIV/AIDS, Reproductive Health and Tuberculosis.There is therefore need for adequate supply of products which largely depends on the accuracy of data collected, acurate access and transformation of that data and accurate interpretation of the data for users.  All of which are vital in ensuring that these needs are met.

Family Planning to prevent unintended pregnancies, skilled birth attendants at all births and emergency obstetric care when needed are all dependent on a secure stream of RH supplies: Contraceptives, Antibiotics and other medical and surgical supplies. As an advocate for MNCH, I strongly insist that inorder to save lives these basic items must reach the places that are needed, not just today but everyday. The death of  a mother could be prevented by an inexpensive medicine  and its availability in the facility.

To my fellow advocates and public/private health workers we should “gang up” and be able toinfluence stakeholders in the health sector which will in turn shape health commodities supply outcomes. Within this context, i strongly believe that our commitment to policies, programs and systems is fundamental to ensure ownership and sustainability, it forms the basis for which stakeholders(government, donors and consumers) will invest to procure supplies and finance the necessary distribution of health commodities.

To sum it all: “Keep pushing and get things done to save lives“.

I would like to use this opportunity to thank the entire staff of JSI for their support, warmth and passion for getting things done especially the M&E team. It was an experience I would never forget in a hurry.

THANK YOU ALL.

lOTS OF SMILES AND LAUGHTER