Vital

News & commentary about the global health workforce

We Can Help Restore Dignity for Thousands of Women in Mali

Each year, 2,000 Malian women are at risk of developing obstetric fistulas. Stronger health systems and holistic care can change this.

Midwives Are More than Midwifery

Midwives could deliver 87% of the world’s sexual, reproductive, maternal, and newborn health services. But a global shortage is holding us back.

Midwives Matter for Haiti's Moms

In the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, maternal and child health challenges persist. Midwives can help Haiti meet those challenges.

Three World-Changers: Drones, Schools, and Sanitary Pads

Digital humanitarians, poverty-fighters, and more head to Saxapahaw, North Carolina, this week for SwitchPoint 2015.

Catching the Wave: Family Planning is Taking Off in West Africa

The modern contraceptive prevalence rate for all of sub-Saharan Africa is 23%. In West Africa, it’s 11%. But that's beginning to change.

Beyond Belief: Health Care as a Weapon

There were 1,809 incidents of violence against health workers, clients, ambulances, and medical facilities in 2012 and 2013. Why? And how can we put a stop to them?

289,000 Reasons Why Health Workers Count for Mothers

Stronger global health systems mean better health care for women, and stronger, healthier families everywhere.

Why We Don't Call Them "Our" Health Workers

As professionals, health workers belong to the people they serve. Join us during World Health Worker Week in thanking those who bring health care to communities around the world, including your own.

The Vaccine Talk: A Crucial Moment for Parents, Children, and Health Workers

When it comes to talking to clients about vaccinations, clear communication is essential for health workers. And so is training.

Bridging the Gap: Surgical Care in Low-Resource Settings

Two billion people worldwide have no access to basic surgical care. Making it available is a key step toward universal health coverage.