Hospital-based health education improves maternal, neonatal care: Study

Targeted hospital-based health education for family caregivers can significantly improve maternal and neonatal care practices in Bangladesh, a new study has found.

The study, conducted by Noora Health Bangladesh under the supervision of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), was presented today (9 September) at a dissemination event held at the DGHS conference room in Mohakhali.

The research evaluated the Care Companion Program (CCP) across 13 Special Care Neonatal Units (SCANUs) using a quasi-experimental design.

It compared standard care with structured caregiver education sessions provided before hospital discharge, with follow-up surveys conducted at 30 and 60 days.

Significant improvements

According to findings presented by Jakia Yasmin, research associate of Monitoring and Evaluation at Noora Health, Mothers who attended CCP sessions showed marked improvements in caregiving practices.

Awareness and practice of exclusive breastfeeding more than doubled, while Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) awareness rose to 59% in the intervention group compared to 23% in the control group. Burping practice was 77% higher among trained mothers, and umbilical cord care also improved.

However, the study noted limited progress in hand hygiene and recognition of newborn danger signs, identifying these as areas needing further focus.

Experts stress integration

Speaking as chief guest, DGHS Director General Prof Dr Md Abu Jafor said, "Achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030 is our national goal, and to reach this target, we must strengthen our health system. The Care Companion Program addresses key components of integration, public–private partnership, and digitalisation."

Prof Dr Sheikh Sayidul Haque, additional DG (planning and development), DGHS, highlighted the importance of engaging doctors and management in the programme and strengthening data visibility through the Management Information System (MIS).

Since 2022, Noora Health Bangladesh, under DGHS guidance, has reached about 14 lakh people with need-based health education through the CCP.

Around 3,000 senior staff nurses and midwives have been trained as master trainers from 565 hospitals nationwide, said Dr Arefin Amal Islam, co-country director of Noora Health Bangladesh.

"We want the Care Companion Program to be included as an integral part of health service delivery and owned by the government," he added.