Reorientation of Health Services
To date, our health services are limited in the knowledge and care given to children and women with FGM. With that in mind, we believe it is necessary to raise awareness and educate health care providers in all spectrums to accommodate the physical, psychological and emotional needs of children, women and families affected by FGM. As defined by the Ottawa Charter, “the responsibility for health promotion in health services is shared among individuals, community groups, health professionals, health services institutions and government. “They must work together toward a health care system that contributes to the pursuit of health” (Fownes & Vollman, 2012, p. 140). In Canada, “this includes a call to action by provincial governments that are charged with delivering health services, the federal government that governs national health policies, social economic sectors, non-governmental and voluntary organizations, local authorities, industry, and the media.” (Fownes & Vollman, 2012, p. 141)
One way in which we can achieve this goal is to promote awareness about FGM through education programs to health care providers. Leye et al (2006) states that:
The training needs of health care professionals must be assessed. Training should take into account various levels: clinical care, the prevention of FGM; counselling, communication, attitudes, and ethical issues. In addition, FGM should be included in the curricula of medical students, nurses, and midwives. (p. 374)
Furthermore, Leye et al (2006, p. 372) observed three interventions practiced in some European countries that address FGM:
1. Technical guidelines for the clinical management of women with FGM;
2. Codes of conduct for health care professionals, published by professional associations, on quality care issues (e.g., culturally appropriate care);
3. Specialised health services that provide medical care, psychological care, and counselling.
Another way to promote the health of women with FGM is through cultural competency. “The provision of culturally competent care to women with FGM is of particular importance to ensuring accessibility of immigrant women to available health resources in their countries” (Ogunsiji, Wilkes & Jackson, 2007, p. 27). Reasons for practising FGM may not be understood in Western society. This can lead to assumptions and prejudice against women with FGM. Therefore, as nurses, it is our responsibility to not pass judgment and to assist patients in the best way possible. This can only be done with knowledge and understanding. “Whatever one’s personal beliefs or prejudices may be the priority should be the care of the patient which requires knowledge of FGM practice and its implications, reporting practices, and protocols for how to care for the patient.” (McGargill, 2009, p. 5). With that in mind, “cultural competence is considered an ongoing process with a goal of achieving ability to work effectively with culturally diverse groups and communities” (as cited by Dvorak 2000; Gonser 2000; Herrick & Brown 1998).
One way in which we can achieve this goal is to promote awareness about FGM through education programs to health care providers. Leye et al (2006) states that:
The training needs of health care professionals must be assessed. Training should take into account various levels: clinical care, the prevention of FGM; counselling, communication, attitudes, and ethical issues. In addition, FGM should be included in the curricula of medical students, nurses, and midwives. (p. 374)
Furthermore, Leye et al (2006, p. 372) observed three interventions practiced in some European countries that address FGM:
1. Technical guidelines for the clinical management of women with FGM;
2. Codes of conduct for health care professionals, published by professional associations, on quality care issues (e.g., culturally appropriate care);
3. Specialised health services that provide medical care, psychological care, and counselling.
Another way to promote the health of women with FGM is through cultural competency. “The provision of culturally competent care to women with FGM is of particular importance to ensuring accessibility of immigrant women to available health resources in their countries” (Ogunsiji, Wilkes & Jackson, 2007, p. 27). Reasons for practising FGM may not be understood in Western society. This can lead to assumptions and prejudice against women with FGM. Therefore, as nurses, it is our responsibility to not pass judgment and to assist patients in the best way possible. This can only be done with knowledge and understanding. “Whatever one’s personal beliefs or prejudices may be the priority should be the care of the patient which requires knowledge of FGM practice and its implications, reporting practices, and protocols for how to care for the patient.” (McGargill, 2009, p. 5). With that in mind, “cultural competence is considered an ongoing process with a goal of achieving ability to work effectively with culturally diverse groups and communities” (as cited by Dvorak 2000; Gonser 2000; Herrick & Brown 1998).