Hospital-based health education improves maternal, newborn care

City Desk :

Targeted health education programs focusing on the family companions at hospitals can significantly improve key maternal and newborn health practices, found a study conducted by Noora Health Bangladesh under the direction of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

The study findings were shared during a dissemination programme organised by the DGHS and Noora Health Bangladesh at the conference room of DGHS in Mohakhali.

Prof Dr Md Abu Jafor, Director General (DG) of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) of Bangladesh addressed the meeting as the chief guest, reports UNB.

“Achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030 is our national goal, and to reach this target, we must strengthen our health service system. The system should be well-integrated and comprehensive, which requires strong public-private partnerships, digitalisation, and active community involvement,” he said.

The DG also said through the Care Companion Program (CCP), Noora Health is addressing all these key components. “This achievement is truly commendable, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to them.”

The meeting focused on presenting the effectiveness of Noora Health’s CCP sessions delivered across Special Care Neonatal Units (SCANUs).

Noora Health Bangladesh has conducted a study on the effectiveness of the Care Companion Program (CCP) in SCANUs across 13 health facilities in the country.

The study employed a quasi-experimental design to compare standard care with CCP, which provides structured caregiver education on newborn and postnatal care prior to hospital discharge.

Surveys were carried out at the hospital and during 30- and 60-day follow-ups with mothers whose babies had been admitted to SCANUs.

The evaluation found that CCP enhanced maternal knowledge and adoption of essential health practices, resulting in improved care behaviors at home and reduced hospital readmissions for both mothers and newborns.