Project Title
Strengthening Maternal and Neonatal Health Services (SMNHS)
Funded/Supported by
One Heart Worldwide
Project Overview
Campaign Nepal, in partnership with One Heart Worldwide (OHW), is making a meaningful impact on maternal and neonatal health in Nepal. With support from OHW, this project focuses on improving the accessibility and quality of maternal and neonatal health services, particularly in underserved regions like Rautahat. By collaborating with local governments, healthcare workers, and communities, the partnership aims to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity, ensuring better health outcomes for mothers and newborns.
Project Objectives
The SMNHS project is designed to:
- Improve the quality and accessibility of maternal and neonatal health services.
- Support pregnant women and new mothers by providing essential resources for their well-being and that of their newborns.
- Strengthen healthcare systems and referral mechanisms to ensure timely and effective care.
Key Activities
The project employs a comprehensive approach to meet its goals:
- Distribution of Essential Supplies:
Winter relief materials were distributed to 611 vulnerable households in Paroha and Dewahi Gonahi municipalities to protect pregnant women and new mothers during harsh weather conditions. - Training and Capacity Building:
Healthcare workers, community health volunteers, and local government officials were trained to improve their skills in maternal and neonatal care, enabling them to deliver better services. - Awareness Campaigns and Community Engagement:
The project organized awareness programs to educate communities about the importance of maternal and neonatal health, encourage healthy behaviors, and promote timely healthcare-seeking practices. - Strengthening Referral Systems:
Efforts were made to streamline the referral system between primary healthcare centers and hospitals, ensuring prompt and effective care for women and newborns experiencing complications. - Supporting Birthing Centers:
The project supported the establishment and operation of birthing centers and emergency obstetric and neonatal care units in the district, providing critical services to mothers and newborns.
Project Impact
The SMNHS project has already made a significant difference in Rautahat:
- Improved Access to Care:
Vulnerable populations now have better access to quality maternal and neonatal health services. - Increased Community Awareness:
Awareness-raising campaigns have empowered communities with knowledge about reproductive health, fostering a supportive environment for maternal and neonatal care. - Strengthened Healthcare Systems:
Capacity-building initiatives and improved referral systems have enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of local healthcare systems.
Project Sustainability
To ensure long-term impact, the SMNHS project focuses on sustainability through:
- Capacity Building:
Empowering local government bodies, healthcare providers, and communities to independently manage and deliver maternal and neonatal health services. - Community Ownership:
Promoting active participation and ownership of project activities by community members to foster accountability and long-lasting results. - Stakeholder Collaboration:
Strengthening partnerships between local governments, healthcare facilities, and community leaders to ensure continued support and coordination.
Project Location
The project is being implemented in Rautahat District, focusing on the following municipalities:
- Paroha
- Dewahi Gonahi
- Katahariya
- Phatuwa Bijaypur
- Gujara
- Brindawan
- Rajpur
- Yamunamai
- Chandrapur