World Day of the Sick: Care That Restores Dignity at Mwulire Health Center
As the world marks World Day of the Sick on February 11, we are reminded that quality health care is not only about treating illness, but about dignity, access, and compassion for people living with sickness. For patients and families in rural communities, timely and respectful care can mean the difference between recovery and prolonged suffering.
Strong primary health care systems play a critical role in ensuring that people receive care close to home, before illnesses become life-threatening. When health centers are well equipped, adequately staffed, and supported, patients are more likely to seek care early, receive proper follow-up, and feel respected throughout their treatment.
Health Builders works in partnership with the Government of Rwanda to strengthen primary health care systems through training, mentorship, and systems strengthening for health facilities and health workers. This support helps ensure that providers are better prepared to deliver compassionate, high-quality care to the communities they serve.
From Limited Access to Care Closer to Home
At Mwulire Health Center in Rwamagana District, these efforts have helped transform how care is delivered. Community members who once faced long distances and limited services now receive care closer to home, in a facility better equipped to meet their needs.
“Before, accessing healthcare in Ntunga was not easy,” explains Theoneste Ndambajimana, a patient at Mwulire Health Center. “It was only a small health post, and there were many people waiting. Even getting a transfer to Rwamagana Hospital could take up to four days. Having a health center here was a dream come true.”
He recalls the challenges his family faced, particularly during his wife’s pregnancy. “Before, the long lines made it very difficult. Today, services are faster, and we no longer need to travel to Rwamagana. Health care is now near us.”
Improved Services for Mothers and Children
For mothers, access to reliable health services is especially critical. Women who once traveled long distances or delivered at home can now access maternal and child health services at Mwulire Health Center.
“Before, it was not easy to access ultrasound services,” says Sandrine Mukeshimana, a mother who regularly seeks care at the health center.
“I had to travel all the way to Rwamagana. Now the services are here, close to home. Even when a child becomes very sick at night, we can come here easily and receive care.”
Supporting Health Workers to Deliver Better Care
The transformation at Mwulire Health Center has also changed daily life for health care workers. With improved infrastructure, medical equipment such as ultrasound machines, and expanded services including vaccination, HIV care, and chronic disease management, providers are better able to serve their patients.
“For me, providing good care, especially to mothers, brings great satisfaction,” says Jeanne d’Arc Dushimimana, a maternity care provider. “When you give good service, patients are happy, and it makes you happy as a caregiver too.”
To her, World Day of the Sick is a reminder of the importance of compassion and dignity in care. “It is a day to remember sick people, to value them, and to always put good service first.”
Holiness Nkunzimana, a clinician working with patients living with chronic diseases, shares a similar reflection.
“It makes me happy when a patient comes to me, receives good care, and goes home feeling supported. That is what our work is about.”
Today, with adequate staffing and improved systems, Mwulire Health Center is able to attend to patients more efficiently, reducing waiting times and improving overall patient experience.
Read more about the transformation of Mwulire Health Center here.
