Sustainability

Sustainability means designing and developing a maternity waiting home (MWH) to support and maintain itself to meet the needs of future generations. Strong community involvement, governmental support, and local leadership support are essential to sustainable and successful homes. Community members should be involved in the major planning and establishment of MWHs (1). Community governance and financial planning, accountability and ownership contribute to a sustainable system. The use of several sources for revenue can aid in financial sustainability, such as revenue from local and national government sources, contributions, and fundraising activities chosen by the community (2). Successful MWHs must be integrated throughout an existing health system and incorporated with support from health facility staff (3).


Critical factors to consider with developing an MWH (click each factor below to read more):

MWH in Liberia (Photo: Jody R. Lori)
Welcome sign at MWH in Liberia (Photo: Jody R. Lori)