The RESPOND project, supported by DFAT, was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide essential sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services to women, girls, and marginalized communities.

The closeout meeting in Bali was a valuable opportunity to share best practices and lessons learned with participants from other implementing countries: eleven member associates from the IPPF SARO and ESEARO regions. This gathering fostered collaboration and mutual learning, strengthening our shared mission to continue providing vital SRHR services.

Representing FPA Sri Lanka were Dr. Nuzrath Nasoordeen (Director Medical) and Mr. Duminda Rajakaruna (Assistant Director – M&E). Their contributions highlighted the project's successes and future directions.

At the closing ceremony, FPA Sri Lanka’s D2D Care mobile app received significant recognition for its exceptional contribution to Digital Health Intervention (DHI) across 11 countries.

Launched in 2022 and designed by FPA's Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the app enhances community-based service programs. It aids Volunteer Health Assistants (VHAs) at FPA Suwa Sewa Centres in conducting home visits, identifying clients needing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, and providing initial services such as family planning, pregnancy tests, manual breast examinations, counselling on cervical and breast cancer screening, and sexually transmitted diseases. It also facilitates the distribution of commodities directly to clients' doorsteps.

Clients requiring additional services are referred to the nearest Suwa Sewa Centre or MOH clinic for further screening and treatment. The app supports VHAs in recording and reporting service statistics, including stock management. It is available in Sinhala, Tamil, and English, compatible with both Android and Apple devices, and allows for offline data recording and progress report generation.

This initiative was supported by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and IPPF, South Asia Region.