Location: Chapakot, in the Pokhara Area of Nepal

Partner: Jevaia Foundation

Project Year 2024

Project Summary: Chapakot Rural Dental Clinic Initiative in Nepal

The Chapakot Rural Dental Clinic Initiative is focused on providing accessible oral health care to the community of Chapakot, located in the Pokhara region of Nepal. With a population of approximately 4,244 people, Chapakot has been identified as an area with a significant need for dental services, prompting the establishment of this new clinic.

Location
- The clinic is situated in Chapakot, a village in the Pokhara Area of Nepal. The existing health facility serves as a vital health resource for the surrounding communities of Pokhara. This initiative aims to establish the availability of oral healthcare for residents.

Population Impact
- The clinic is expected to serve the entire population of Chapakot and the surrounding area, providing essential dental care to both children and adults. The clinic aims to address the existing gaps in dental services and preventive care to improve overall health outcomes in the community.

Service Model
- The clinic is staffed by a qualified dental hygienist, Sonika Gurung, and a trained assistant, Man Maya Dhungana. They provide services aligned with the Basic Package of Oral Care (BPOC), as endorsed by the World Health Organization, ensuring that dental care is culturally appropriate and community-focused.

- Services offered include routine check-ups, preventive care, basic treatments, and referrals as necessary.

Outreach and School Programs
- As part of its commitment to public health, the Chapakot clinic will implement systematic outreach programs, including annual oral health screenings and basic treatment provisions in local schools. This initiative aims to ensure that every child in Chapakot receives proper dental care and education, promoting preventive health practices from an early age.

Funding Structure
Local government funding has supported the clinic's establishment, facilitating the hiring of the dental technician and operational costs. The Sumar Lakhani Foundation has provided crucial financial backing for the clinic's setup.

- Jevaia plays a key role, co-funding the project and overseeing the training and certification of clinic staff, ensuring high standards of care through their established expertise.

Training and Competency Certification:
- Both Sonika Gurung and Man Maya Dhungana have undergone specialized training in the BPOC model, and they are equipped to provide quality dental care. They will continue to receive ongoing technical support and supervision from Jevaia to maintain the highest standards of service.

Quality Assurance and Support:
- Jevaia will provide ongoing support and supervision to ensure quality assurance across all clinic activities and outreach. This ensures that all aspects of care are people-centered and responsive to the unique needs of the community in Chapakot.

Conclusion
The Chapakot Rural Dental Clinic Initiative represents a significant advancement in oral health care accessibility for the local population. By establishing this clinic and incorporating outreach programs, the project seeks to improve the quality of life for residents, promote preventive dental health, and enhance overall community health. The collaboration between the Sumar Lakhani Foundation and Jevaia is vital for the successful operation and sustainability of the Chapakot dental clinic, positively impacting thousands of individuals in the region.