Where a Phone Line is a Lifeline

After weeks of persistent headaches, Ellena Sosteni called Chipatala Cha Pa Foni (CCPF), or Health Center by Phone, seeking medical advice. A mother of five, Ellena lived in a rural village in the Balaka district of Malawi - a two hour walk from any health facility. 

VillageReach developed the national, toll-free national health hotline and message service so people like Ellena could have ready access to health information, right from their phones. In 2020, VillageReach transitioned this solution to ownership under the Malawi Ministry of Health. 

When she called CCPF, a nurse urged Ellena to consult a doctor about the possibility of pregnancy and to rule out malaria. After her pregnancy was confirmed, Ellena called CCPF again for advice on antenatal care, proper nutrition, and the effects of hormonal changes during pregnancy. 

With the support of CCPF, Ellena became the first woman from her community to give birth in a health center rather than at home – a milestone for the whole community. 

In rural communities like Balaka, distance often prevents people from accessing the health information they need. That’s why your gift will allow us to extend the reach of health care systems to every community and give people the power to make informed decisions about when to seek care.

We are thrilled you traveled with us on this short journey through VillageReach. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about global health innovation and our work to transform health care delivery to reach everyone.