Growth and immunization charts are kept for the children. Family planning methods are discussed with the adults. Ongoing health education is provided based on the individual needs of the family. The needs in Montero seem very great. The open market is littered with garbage and stagnant water.
Dogs roam freely amidst the insect-covered meat carcasses hanging in the hot sun.
As we drive through the developing barrientos we see clearly the lack of basic sanitation. Many homes have no plumbing or water. Animals an children live together on tiny plots of land. Yet amidst this overwhelming public health challenge, there is a sense of hope in this community. The Andrean Rural Health Care Center in Montero and its dedicated staff are like a shining beacon of hope.