In much of the Zanmi Lasante network, access to care depends directly on the ability to travel. Distances, road conditions and climatic conditions influence every stage of care, particularly when a patient needs to be referred to a structure capable of handling more complex cases.
In this context, the work of drivers structures the movement of patients, staff and medical equipment. They ensure transfers between health centers and hospitals, support field activities, and intervene in emergencies when time becomes a critical factor.
Jean-Evenson has held this position since 2022 at the Baille-Tourrible health center. He drives between the health center and other structures in the network, in an area where roads remain difficult and journeys often long. He transports patients requiring specialized care, accompanies staff on their journeys, and ensures that activities can take place under reliable conditions.
His role relies on constant execution: driving carefully, keeping the vehicle in good condition, respecting schedules and remaining available at all times. These elements determine the system’s ability to function on a daily basis.
A situation experienced by Jean-Evenson directly illustrates this impact. While in Thomonde after a transport, he was called to an emergency at the Baille Tourrible health center. A woman in her 70s was in serious condition with an advanced foot infection. He drove in heavy rain for over an hour and a half to reach the center. After picking her up, he transferred her to Bon Sauveur de Cange Hospital. The patient received the necessary care and is still alive today.
Each trip helps to reduce the time it takes to access care, direct patients to the right structures, and maintain coordination between the different levels of the healthcare system.
The drivers also facilitate the work of the teams. By travelling to communities, they ensure the continuity of consultation, monitoring and awareness-raising activities. Their presence conditions the regularity of interventions in the field.
The constraints remain significant. Road conditions slow down journeys, increase wear and tear on vehicles and expose teams to additional risks. In this context, the availability of vehicles in good condition becomes a central element in guaranteeing safe and rapid travel. Jean-Evenson emphasizes this point based on his own experience. Reliable vehicles reduce delays, ensure safe transfers and improve working conditions for all teams.
Through these journeys, drivers provide a concrete link between patients and care facilities. Their work links every stage of care, where every journey directly influences the quality and speed of care.
“Being a driver here isn’t just about driving. It’s about enabling patients to arrive in time to receive the care they need.”
In areas where every journey can decide the outcome of care, the work of drivers remains essential to maintaining access to care. Reliable vehicles, fuel and regular maintenance make it possible to ensure these essential transfers on a daily basis.